Council
25 June, 2026
Council takes advocacy to Parliament
COMMUNITY priorities were front and centre last week when Corangamite Shire Council representatives met with state decision-makers to advocate on behalf of the community.
Corangamite Shire Council mayor councillor Kate Makin and chief executive officer (CEO) David Rae visited State Parliament in Melbourne to meet with members of parliament from both the government and opposition.
Meetings were held with Minister for Regional Development and Agriculture Michaela Settle, Member for Ripon Martha Haylett, Shadow Member for Police and Corrections Brad Battin, Minister for Tourism, Small Business, Employment and Veterans Natalie Suleyman, Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan and Shadow Minister for Local Government and Small Business Bev McArthur.
Discussions focused on Corangamite’s priorities ahead of this year’s State Election, including funding for the Skipton Recreation Reserve, Port Campbell-Princetown Trail and the Camperdown Production Precinct.
Broader issues were also raised, including land use conflict, fire recovery, emergency services and ongoing challenges facing rural communities.
“Strong advocacy is about building relationships, having constructive conversations and ensuring regional communities have a seat at the table,” Cr Makin said.
“CEO David Rae and I met with a range of government and opposition MPs at State Parliament to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing our region.
“Our conversations focused on key advocacy priorities, (including funding support for the Skipton Recreation Reserve, the Port Campbell–Princetown Trail and the Camperdown Production Precinct.)
“We also highlighted broader issues impacting rural Victoria, including fire recovery, land use planning, emergency services, housing and regional economic development.
“I appreciate the willingness of MPs from across the political spectrum to engage with us and hear directly about the needs of our communities.”
Cr Makin said council was committed to working with all sides of government to put the region’s priorities at the forefront.
“Achieving outcomes for regional Victoria requires collaboration, strong partnerships and ongoing advocacy,” she said.
“Council remains committed to ensuring Corangamite Shire’s voice is heard and we will continue to advocate for the investment and support needed to help our communities thrive.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to these discussions and to those who continue to champion regional Victoria.”
To read about council’s advocacy priorities, visit corangamite.vic.gov.au/Priorities.
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