May 2025 Council Meeting wrap
Last updated on 29 May 2025
Some of the key items considered and endorsed at the May 2025 Council Meeting included:
Revised Flood Risk Mapping
Council noted updated flood studies prepared by the North Central Catchment Management Authority (NCCMA) for Kyneton, Carlsruhe, Malmsbury, Tylden and Lauriston. The revised flood modelling incorporates updated climate change data, and proposed amendments to existing flood overlays.
Council agreed to begin the process of formally updating the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme to include the new information (draft Planning Scheme Amendment 162macr), which will include a period of public consultation and potential referral to a state advisory committee to help consider any unresolved submissions.
New Regional Tourism Partnership
Council endorsed joining the new regional tourism organisation, Destination Central Victoria Inc., which will replace Daylesford Macedon Tourism following a Victorian Government change to the operating model (Visitor Economy Partnerships).
The new organisation will represent the Macedon Ranges, Hepburn, Central Goldfields and Mount Alexander council areas and take a lead role in regional tourism marketing, development and advocacy. Council agreed to continue providing annual funding to this representative body, subject to Council’s annual budget process.
Planning Panel – Benetas Retirement Village proposal
In considering submissions received relating to the proposed rezoning of land in Gisborne to enable the development of a retirement village (located opposite Dixon Field – Amendment C147macr and planning permit application PLN/2022/354), Council agreed to refer the proposal and all submissions to an independent Planning Panel for its review and advice, while also noting to receive further legal advice as required. Council will later consider all advice in making its final decision.
Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy
Council formally affirmed its stance in opposing the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy, noting the significant impacts it will have on the community and in particular, the farming and business sectors.
Council agreed to write to key government figures – including the Premier and Leader of the Opposition – regarding Council’s stance, calling for the levy to be administered fully by the State Revenue Office though requesting that if councils were to implement it, there be consideration around realistic timeframes, full and ongoing funding support, and a communications campaign. Council also agreed to write to all Victorian councils and peak council bodies seeking them to unite in opposition.
Quarterly Financial Report – January to March 2025
Council received and noted the financial performance report for the third quarter of 2024-25 financial year. The report showed Council’s financial position year-to-date is favourable to budget, and capital works are tracking behind budget year-to-date, noting many projects will be finalised in the last quarter of the financial year.
2024 Council Election Report
Council noted a report from the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), which administers local government elections, on the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s 2024 elections. The report outlined voter participation, candidate numbers, postal vote processing and election outcomes, confirming the election was conducted fairly and in accordance with legislation.
Planning Delegated Committee Meeting Dates 2025
In continuing to consider the ongoing format of the Planning Delegated Committee (PDC) and meetings, Council endorsed two further PDC meetings in the current format – if required – on Wednesday 9 July 2025 at 7pm, and Wednesday 13 August 2025 at 7pm.
Small Projects Grants
Council approved four new funding allocations totalling $11,115 to four community groups under the Small Projects Grant program. The program funds community groups that deliver localised, low-cost projects supporting community wellbeing and connection.
Community Grants Policy Review
Following a comprehensive review, Council adopted the revised Community Grants Policy. The updated policy provides a more streamlined framework for administering grant programs and enhances accessibility and transparency for community applications.
Further information on this Council Meeting, including minutes and a meeting recording, can be found at Agendas and Minutes