THE City of Whittlesea has adopted a new four-year Community Plan that will guide how Council works with residents to create a more connected, inclusive and sustainable city.
The Community Plan 2025–29 was developed over 12 months and informed by one of the most extensive engagement programs undertaken by the Council. More than 4,500 residents, community organisations and stakeholders contributed through surveys, focus groups, workshops and 35 pop-up sessions held across 15 suburbs.
Mayor Councillor Martin Taylor said the breadth of input ensured the Plan genuinely reflects the priorities and aspirations of local people.
“Our Community Plan 2025–29 and Community Action Plan 2025–26 represent the collective voices and vision of our community. More than 4,500 community voices and residents have contributed through surveys, pop-up sessions and workshops across our municipality, shaping 12 themes that reflect what matters most to the people in the City of Whittlesea,” Cr Taylor said.
The Plan outlines 55 strategic priorities grouped across 12 key themes that cover many aspects of everyday life, including safety and wellbeing, accessible transport, environmental resilience, participation in culture and recreation, and equitable access to services and facilities. It also integrates Council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan and Disability Action Plan, ensuring a coordinated approach to improving health, inclusion and liveability.
To support implementation, the Community Action Plan 2025–26 details 46 initiatives to be delivered in the coming year. These actions are designed to be concrete and measurable, allowing Council to demonstrate transparent progress toward long-term goals.
“The Community Plan 2025–29 sets out the strategic direction and long-term goals for the next four years while the Community Action Plan 2025–26 details the practical steps that Council will take in the coming year to turn these goals into measurable results,” Cr Taylor said.
“Together they provide a clear, transparent and accountable roadmap, ensuring that every decision we make is guided by evidence, integrity and community priorities. Most importantly, they embody partnership between Council, our residents and our community organisations to build a city that is safe, connected, sustainable and inclusive.”
The Plan responds directly to concerns raised during engagement, including safety and violence prevention, mental and physical wellbeing, homelessness and housing affordability, waste and sustainability, and access to employment and training. It also commits to ongoing improvements to local roads, public transport options, parks, playgrounds and community facilities.
The City of Whittlesea has thanked all community members who contributed, acknowledging their role in shaping a shared vision for the municipality’s future.