The advocacy document will be presented to all major Victorian political parties, and is designed to address critical infrastructure gaps, community safety concerns and sustainable growth management across Moira Shire.
Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said the advocacy priorities reflected the needs of the community.
“Supporting these community outcomes is about building a future that aligns with our vision to be a thriving, connected regional community,” he said.
Dr Emonson said Moira Shire was experiencing significant growth, with population projected to increase from 30,522 in 2021 to 35,888 by 2046.
“Strategic investment from the Victorian Government following the 2026 state election will ensure Moira continues to grow sustainably,” Dr Emonson said.
“Creating jobs, supporting housing and services, protecting our natural environment and strengthening the social fabric that holds our communities together.
“Council is committed to championing our community’s needs and priorities, and the identified projects and initiatives are essential.”
Projects identified include building sport facilities for the future, such as the Scott Reserve Pavilion in Cobram, which contains asbestos and cannot be renovated to meet modern standards or community needs.
A new $7 million facility would provide AFL and Netball Victoria-compliant facilities, accessibility features, and emergency evacuation capacity for North Cobram's only community facility.
Another project is the progressing of the Yarrawonga Mulwala Bridge, which carries 13,000 vehicles daily but no longer meets modern freight and safety requirements.
A new bridge would improve safety, freight productivity and connectivity for the twin towns.
A joint funding commitment is needed from Victorian, NSW and federal governments to protect flood-prone communities, including Numurkah, which floods about every 18 years.
The $12.56 million southern levee would complete flood protection for 119 homes and mitigate impacts on a further 760 properties.
Federal Government funding of $6.45 million has been received for this project.
Support to tackle family violence is also needed, with Moira Shire experiencing increasing rates of family and domestic violence.
Current resourcing creates inconsistent after-hours response and potential 90-minute delays for remote locations.
A new Cobram police station supporting 24-hour operations would enable rapid response and visible community safety presence.
Another prioritised project is Moira Shire’s road network, with the shire having a fatal crash rate 33 per cent above the Victorian average.
Priority improvements include $15 million for a Belmore St bypass in Yarrawonga, $5 million for the Numurkah, Naring and Tocumwal Rds intersection upgrade, $3.6 million in additional intersection improvements, and $2.3 million in school crossing safety upgrades.
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