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Peri Urban Councils Victoria reflecting on 2025 year of growth, advocacy, and stronger Peri-Urban communities

As 2025 ends, PUCV reflects on a productive year of growth, advocacy, and connectivity improvements, thanking member councils and supporters, while preparing an ambitious agenda for 2026 and beyond.

By news@gippsland - 16th December 2025 - Back to News

As 2025 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly productive and purposeful year for Peri Urban Councils Victoria (PUCV). Our member councils continue to grow rapidly and PUCV’s work has never been more important to shaping liveable, sustainable and well-supported peri urban communities.

Cr Moira Berry wishes you a Merry Christmas and safe New Year, looking forward to continuing advocacy together in 2026

Advocating for progress

Throughout 2025, our federal and state delegations provided valuable opportunities to engage decision makers directly on the challenges facing peri urban municipalities. In Canberra and at Spring Street, we met with ministers, shadow ministers, members of parliament, advisers and senior officials to advocate for the investment and policy recognition our communities need.

We’ve also advocated for improvements to mobile connectivity across our communities particularly as they become holiday hotspots, with hundreds of thousands of summer visitors expected as the festive season begins. In our submission on the draft Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation Bill, we argued for policy reforms that reflect the lived experience and expectations of our communities.

Advocating for communities

As we look ahead to 2026, PUCV is preparing an ambitious advocacy agenda. We will return to both Spring Street and Canberra early in the new year as budget processes get underway. With the Victorian election scheduled for the end of next year, we also have an opportunity to deepen understanding of the role our councils play in shaping Victoria’s growth and future prosperity, and the challenges they face.

To our member councils, partners and supporters: thank you for your hardwork, collaboration and support throughout the year. You have helped to ensure PUCV remains a strong and united voice for peri urban communities.

I wish you, your families and your communities a Merry Christmas and a safe, restful New Year. I look forward to working with you again in 2026 as we continue to advocate for the people and places we proudly represent.

Pictures from Peri Urban Councils Victoria website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026, ensuring strong leadership and continuity while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery.
• Stroll among thousands of vibrant roses in full bloom at Morwell's International Rose Garden Festival, 7 - 8 November 2025
  The 2025 Rose Garden Festival features free family fun with blooming gardens, workshops, live performances, markets, aerial theatre, kids' entertainment, and the spectacular AGL Loy Yang Night Light Installation.
• Baw Baw Shire Council extends Acting CEO Mick Cummins’ leadership through 2 January 2026 during CEO’s absence
  Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Mick Cummins’ Acting CEO role until 2 January 2026, supporting the organisation while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery.
• Agriculture advisory committee supports East Gippsland farmers through collaboration and regional advocacy initiatives
  The Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee advises on policies, programs, and partnerships to support East Gippsland farmers, addressing biosecurity, water security, pest management, and regional agricultural priorities for a resilient sector.
• Tim Bull says East Gippsland faces a housing crisis, with social homes declining despite population growth
  Victoria’s social housing crisis deepens as Labor policies drive rental providers away, reducing stock. Tim Bull warns record waiting lists and rising homelessness demand urgent government action.
• East Gippsland Business Support Voucher Program boosts small businesses through tailored mentoring and strategic growth guidance
  Orbost Snowy River Cycling benefited from East Gippsland Council Business Support Voucher Program, receiving tailored mentoring that strengthened business planning, resilience, and growth, enabling expansion and long-term success in the region.
• Bass Coast Shire Council endorses Quarterly Performance Report, showing progress, achievements, and positive financial outlook for December 2025
  Bass Coast Council’s Quarterly Performance Report shows strong progress on 2025–26 Action Plan, key projects advancing, and a $2 million operating surplus, reflecting strategic achievements and responsible financial management.
• Allan Labor government invests $860,000 to support and strengthen Men's Sheds across Victoria
  The Allan Labor government is investing $860,000 to support 31 men's sheds across Victoria, funding upgrades, expansions, and new equipment to strengthen communities and foster connection through shared skills.
• Mayor Cr John White reflects on busy September: Sport, community, citizenship, infrastructure, and engagement across East Gippsland
  September was a busy, rewarding month for East Gippsland, with community events, sports, citizenship ceremonies, infrastructure projects, policy consultations, and initiatives boosting local tourism and engagement.
• Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
  Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025.