MITCHELL Shire Council (MSC) has reacted warmly to the recent Victorian state budget, delivered by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes.
With continued advocacy from MSC, in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Council welcomed Friday’s announcement that there were changes made to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF), which has given farmers a 12-month reprieve.
As part of its drought support package, the State Government has announced that all primary production properties will have their ESVF contributions capped at the same amount paid in 2024-25. This means the variable rate will remain at 28.7 for the duration of the 2025-26 financial year, providing critical cost certainty for farmers already facing dry conditions and rising operating costs. These changes will be automatically applied to rates notices.
The Victorian Government has also announced a drought package in response to worsening seasonal conditions. The package includes grants of up to $5000 to support on-farm drought management improvements, along with financial counselling and mental health support for farmers.
MSC also allayed its excitement towards the $13.7 million investment at Broadford Primary School, while funding was also provided to plan upgrades at Bradford Secondary College.
MSC outlined its excitement at a number of school projects in the area nearing completion.
“Council is also pleased to see progress on a number of other school projects. Wallan East Primary School has been confirmed to open in term one, 2026, a vital development for one of the fastest-growing communities,” they said.
“The upgrade to Wandong Primary is advancing, and the Beveridge Primary School upgrade has been completed. These projects are essential in meeting the needs of Mitchell’s expanding population and providing families with the local services they expect and deserve.”
The Camerons Lane interchange has appeared in the budget for the first time, with the state committing $30 million of funding thanks to the Federal Government.
MSC also balanced their positive reactions with the omission of funding for several key projects.
In particular, MSC expressed their concern for the termination of the Growing Suburbs Fund.
“This fund has enabled councils to deliver critical community and sporting infrastructure, and its removal, without any replacement, is a serious blow to MSC’s capacity to meet growing demand,” they said.
“On rail infrastructure, we would have liked to have seen funding for the Beveridge Train Station and matched funding for the Federal Government’s commitment to the Upfield Line business case. These projects are essential to supporting long-term growth, housing, and employment opportunities in the north.
“It is also disappointing to see the Kilmore Bypass delayed yet again, with project completion now pushed out to mid-2027. The community has been waiting far too long for this critical project to be delivered, and further delays only increase frustration.
“Council is also concerned that the funding allocated to the Kilmore Bypass is only sufficient to cover planning and delivery of the roundabout at Wandong Road and not the entire project.
“Council will continue advocating for additional funding for land acquisition and construction of the whole project.”
MSC Mayor Councillor John Dougall said the budget provided plenty of talking points for Council, both good and bad.
“The changes to the ESVF are an important win for our farming communities. Council and the MAV raised the alarm about the disproportionate impact of the levy on primary producers, and we’re pleased the Government has listened,” he said.
“We’re grateful to see funding for school upgrades in Broadford, Wallan East, Wandong and Beveridge. These projects make a real difference for families and show that the Government recognises some of the growing needs of our region.
“We also welcome progress on road and transport projects like the Watson Street and Camerons Lane interchanges, along with improved train and bus services. These are steps in the right direction, but they must be part of a broader, long-term investment strategy.
“What’s most disappointing is the scrapping of the Growing Suburbs Fund. This fund has delivered critical infrastructure—from sports facilities to community centres—in growth areas like ours. Its removal leaves a major gap with no clear pathway to meet rising demand.
“The continued delays to the Kilmore Bypass are equally frustrating. Planning and partial works aren’t enough—we need full funding and a clear timeline to deliver the entire project.
“Mitchell Shire is growing fast. We need the Victorian Government to deliver the infrastructure and services to match.”