Council
12 August, 2026
Have your say on the future of water management
CORANGAMITE residents are being encouraged to help shape the future of water management across the western district.
The state government has invited community consultation on the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy.
The strategy will focus on ways to improve water security, infrastructure, planning and management arrangements.
At the recent Ordinary Meeting of Council, councillor Jamie Vogels strongly encouraged everyone across the community to take part in consultation.
“The decisions made through this process will shape how water is managed across western Victoria for decades to come, making it one of the most important consultations for our region in recent years,” he said.
“For our farming communities, water is not just an environmental issue.
“It’s the foundation of our food production, regional economy and our way of life.
“After years of drought and prolonged dry conditions, local farmers and rural businesses understand better than anyone the consequences of water scarcity.
“Their practical experience must help shape the decisions that will affect future generations.”
Cr Vogels said it was essential the strategy recognises the importance of protecting productive agriculture and ensuring regional communities have access to secure, reliable and affordable water supplies.
“The voices of those who live and work on the land need to be heard alongside those of government agencies and other stakeholders,” he said.
“This is an opportunity to ensure the strategy reflects the realities of living and working in western Victoria and delivers outcomes to support healthy, environmental and thriving rural communities.”
Corangamite Shire Council mayor councillor Kate Makin said community input would play a critical role in shaping the final strategy.
“Whether you’re a farmer, business operator, Traditional Owner, in an environmental group or just have a garden in town, we all use water,” she said.
“It’s a precious resource but we can’t always rely on having all we need, where we need it.
“Droughts and floods over the years have shown us that.”
Cr Makin said community feedback was vital to shaping the future.
“Your experiences and ideas could be really valuable for helping guide how water is used across out region to support our agricultural, environmental, and economic future,” she said.
“I encourage everyone to go to the Engage Victoria website, read the scoping paper and leave feedback.”
Residents can attend a drop-in session in Timboon today to learn more, held at the Power Creek Reserve Building at 30 Bailey Street from 12.30-3pm.
The consultation is open until August 23 at engage.vic.gov.au/western-region-sustainable-water-strategy.
Community members will also be able to comment on the draft strategy when it has been prepared.
It is anticipated the final strategy will be completed in late 2027.
For more information, or to subscribe to progress updates, residents can email sws.team@deeca.vic.gov.au.