Councillors Reg Dickinson and Sally Hayes-Burke lodged the motion in March, in a bid to join 98 local governments that have issued the declaration and adopted targets.
Greater Shepparton City Council declared a climate emergency in March 2020, resolving to reach zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Mr Dickinson said rising temperatures would impact the region’s energy and infrastructure, and increase air pollution and community health problems.
“This is not just about the present, it is about protecting the future for our children and their children,” he said.
“Increasing occurrences of extreme weather events will impact agriculture and tourism in our shire.
“Hotter and drier conditions will create a loss of habitat allowing pest plants and animals to out compete the native species we love so much in our region.”
Ms Hayes-Burke said the council had read feedback on social media that denied climate change was an issue.
“We have heard the comments about a lack of community consultation,” she said.
“We want to let you know that we are listening and that we made the decision to defer the notice of motion to a future council meeting to seek input from our community.”
Ms Hayes-Burke said the declaration of a climate emergency would assist the council's future actions to reduce its carbon footprint and emissions, as the threat of extreme weather events increased.
Under current targets, the shire aims to have 50 per cent of its energy derived from renewables, a 20 to 65 per cent increase in canopy cover and a 50 per cent reduction in emissions across Strathbogie by 2030.
“Our climate is changing, the impacts are catastrophic, and leadership is needed,” Ms Hayes-Burke said.
To share feedback with the Strathbogie Shire Council, email info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au or speak to a ward councillor.
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