Backing Murrindindi - Victorian State Election 2026
Murrindindi Shire Council has launched an advocacy campaign ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election to ensure the needs of our rural communities are clearly heard by all political parties and candidates.
What is the campaign about?
We’re calling on the next Victorian Government to back the projects, infrastructure and reforms our communities need to recover, grow and thrive.
We’ve named this campaign:
Backing Murrindindi
Because our communities deserve a government that understands the challenges rural areas face and is willing to invest in practical solutions that deliver long term outcomes.
Murrindindi Shire is one of Victoria’s largest local government areas by size, with communities spread across more than 3,800 square kilometres. We are proud of our rural identity, strong communities and natural environment, but we also face unique challenges.
In recent years, our communities have experienced repeated natural disasters, increasing financial pressure, housing shortages, ageing infrastructure and ongoing gaps in health, telecommunications and essential services.
The January 2026 bushfires further intensified these challenges. Murrindindi experienced the greatest impact of any Victorian municipality, accounting for almost half of the State’s structural losses.
This campaign outlines the priority projects and reforms needed to support recovery, strengthen resilience and secure the long-term future of our communities.
What we’re asking for
Murrindindi Shire Council has identified seven priority advocacy asks that require Victorian Government investment, partnership and reform.
These priorities are practical, evidence based and aligned to the long-term future of rural Victoria.
1. Financial Sustainability for Rural Councils
A $22 million financial stabilisation package over four years to support Council’s medium term financial viability while broader local government funding reform is progressed.
2. Alexandra Community Relief and Leisure Centre Redevelopment
A $22 million State and Commonwealth funding partnership to redevelop the Alexandra Community Relief and Leisure Centre into a modern, compliant community and emergency relief facility.
3. Lake Eildon Master Plan Implementation
A $12 million investment to unlock the broader $49 million Lake Eildon Master Plan and support a generational transformation of tourism, economic development and visitor infrastructure.
4. Rural Road Rehabilitation Program
A $10 million investment over two years to rehabilitate and future proof 720 kilometres of critical unsealed roads across Murrindindi Shire.
5. Place Based Youth Services
An ongoing commitment of $350,000 per year to deliver local youth services that strengthen mental health, improve connection and reduce disengagement for young people across the Shire.
6. Kinglake Sewer and Water Infrastructure Planning
A $1 million investment to plan sewer and water infrastructure solutions for the Kinglake Ranges, unlocking future housing, tourism and economic opportunities.
7. Yea Oval Reconstruction
A $1.4 million investment to reconstruct Yea Oval and deliver a safe, compliant and multi use sporting and community facility.
Each of these priorities is supported by strong evidence, strategic planning and clear community need. Together, they represent critical investment in disaster resilience, regional productivity, community wellbeing and the long term sustainability of rural communities.
Campaign Resources
You can read more about the campaign and advocacy priorities below:
Advocacy Campaign Booklet - Key Community Projects(PDF, 529KB)
It includes a message from Mayor Damien Gallagher, campaign priorities and key advocacy messages.
The booklet is designed to support conversations with candidates, government representatives, community members and partner organisations throughout the election period.
How can you support the campaign?
This campaign belongs to the entire Murrindindi community.
Whether you are a resident, business owner, volunteer, visitor or community organisation, your voice matters.
You can support the campaign by:
- Talking to election candidates about the issues that matter to Murrindindi
- Sharing campaign messages and priorities with your networks
- Following Council’s election advocacy updates throughout the campaign
- Encouraging investment in the infrastructure, services and recovery our communities need
Together, we can make sure Murrindindi’s voice is heard and that rural communities are not left behind.
For more information about the campaign or to discuss Council’s advocacy priorities, please contact Murrindindi Shire Council on (03) 5772 0333.