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Coalition demands Albanese government regulate veterans’ advocacy sector after damning Senate committee report release

The Coalition urges urgent laws to regulate veterans’ advocacy, citing unethical practices, rising commercial providers, data risks, and unmet Royal Commission reforms to better protect vulnerable veterans and their families.

By news@gippsland - 14th November 2025 - Back to News

The Coalition is calling on the Albanese government to develop new laws to regulate the veterans' advocacy sector following the release of the Senate Committee report, Issues Relating to Advocacy Services for Veterans Accessing Compensation and Income Support. Shadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said the Coalition stood ready to support sensible legislation to protect veterans and their families.

Darren Chester said the Coalition is ready to back strong laws amid rising unethical advocacy practices exposing vulnerable veterans to financial and personal harm

Veterans advocacy risks

Mr Chester said, "The report found widespread evidence of unethical and exploitative behaviour within the commercial, fee-for-service advocacy industry and warned the current lack of regulation is leaving vulnerable veterans open to serious financial and personal harm,"

"Evidence from the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) revealed the number of commercial, fee-for-service providers has rapidly increased in the past 12 months, with some operators now accounting for nearly one-fifth of all claims processed by the department. "

"DVA told the committee it is concerned about unethical business models, excessive commissions, deceptive advertising and the offshore handling of sensitive veteran data. While the department has made some internal changes to address the issue, it is now up to the government to finally act," Mr Chester said.

Veterans advocacy reform

The Committee made seven key recommendations, including:

• Legislative action to curb harmful and deceptive business practices, including the imposition of fee caps
• Ban on misleading advertising and greater transparency in service agreements
• Stronger safeguards against the offshore handling of veterans' personal and medical data
• The establishment of a National Veterans' Legal Service, based on the successful Defence and Veterans' Legal Service model
• Sustained government funding for free-to-the-veteran advocacy through ex-service organisations

"The report also warned that the Institute of Veterans Advocacy, currently under development, will not be effective without stable government funding and legislative powers to register and discipline advocates. Importantly, the committee also urged the government to implement Recommendation 99 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which called for the establishment of a professional, paid veterans' advocacy workforce to replace the current ad hoc and volunteer-based model, he said.

Veterans advocacy ignored

Mr Chester also said, "Despite agreeing to the recommendation 'in principle' almost a year ago, the government has failed to deliver any concrete plan or funding to make it a reality. The Albanese government's failure to respond to this issue promptly shows a worrying disregard for veterans' welfare."

"This report exposes shocking gaps in regulation that have allowed some commercial operators to profit from veterans' pain. The government has been warned about these practices for over a year by DVA, by the Royal Commission, and now by a Senate inquiry, but it continues to drag its feet," he said.

Protect veterans now

Mr Chester added, "Every day that passes without reform leaves veterans vulnerable to exploitation, misinformation and financial stress. The government must work with the Coalition to bring forward legislation without delay to protect those who have served."

"Veterans should never be forced to pay a commission on their compensation or see their private medical data handled offshore. There is no reason the government couldn't introduce legislation in the final sitting week of the year to put these rogue actors on notice."

"The government must also deliver on Recommendation 99 of the Royal Commission and provide the funding needed to build a professional, paid advocacy workforce alongside the volunteer ESO network. Veterans deserve choice, whether that's free advocacy through ex-service organisations or access to qualified, ethical paid advocates who are properly regulated and supported," Mr Chester said.

Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Life Saving Victoria warns Victorians to stay alert over Easter holidays, urging safety at beaches, pools, and waterways after last year’s record 13 drowning deaths nationwide.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Thurra river bridge finally reopens after five-year delay, fueling local frustration and renewed criticism
  The Thurra River Bridge has reopened after five and a half years, prompting relief and anger, with MP Tim Bull criticising prolonged delays, economic impacts, and unfinished fire recovery projects across East Gippsland.
• Mallacoota water workers honoured after 80 years combined service supporting community through challenges
  Three long-serving East Gippsland Water employees with 80 years combined service honoured after retirement, recognised for dedication, resilience and contributions to Mallacoota’s water services and community, especially during major emergencies.
• Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s timber shutdown, citing job losses, insecure work and failed transition planning
  Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s native timber shutdown, highlighting failed transition, job insecurity, and ongoing regional economic harm under the Allan government’s policy.
• Darren Chester urges federal support for forest scientists making Australia's sustainable native hardwood timber industry
  Darren Chester has urged the Albanese government to support credible forest scientists backing Australia's sustainable native hardwood timber industry, criticising activist influence and government bans harming regional jobs and communities.
• Darren Chester urges immediate European Carp control virus release by 2028 to protect Australian waterways
  Darren Chester urges urgent action against European carp, supporting the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s push to release the carp herpes virus by 2028 to protect waterways and native biodiversity.
• David Littleproud says farmers won major victory after Labor abandoned its plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds
  Nationals Leader David Littleproud says farmers have won a major victory after Labor abandoned its plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds.
• Interim report calls for flexible childcare system, improved regional access and supports for families across all service types in Gippsland
  Victoria’s childcare inquiry interim report urges stronger child safety, improved regulation, workforce standards and better regional access across the early childhood education sector.
• Life Saving Victoria report reveals alarming 52 deaths, 123 drownings, urgent water safety action needed
  Life Saving Victoria’s 2024-25 Drowning Report reveals 52 deaths and 123 non-fatal drownings, with rising incidents among youth, seniors, multicultural communities, and outside traditional summer months, urging urgent water safety action.
• Latrobe City urges the Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety urgent activation of Traralgon Bank Street and Princes Highway traffic lights
  Latrobe City Council urges Victorian Ministers to urgently activate the Bank Street–Princes Highway traffic lights in Traralgon, addressing safety concerns after completed works remain non-operational since 2018.
• Omeo tourism report and investment prospectus highlight opportunities for growth and visitor experiences
  The newly released Omeo Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Investment Prospectus highlight opportunities for investors, showcasing growth potential in hospitality, services, visitor experiences, and adventure tourism in Victoria’s alpine region.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations effective from 1 January 2026
  Danny O’Brien urged Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations from 1 January 2026, warning compliance is essential to avoid penalties despite Nationals’ opposition.
• CFMEU corruption report exposes organised crime links, $15B project blowouts, prompting Melina Bath to demand Labor accountability
  The ‘Rotting from the Top’ report exposes serious CFMEU corruption, links to organised crime, and $15 billion in project blowouts, prompting Nationals MP Melina Bath to demand Allan Labor government accountability.
• East Gippsland Council and farmers welcome the $2.75M boost for feral pig control under the Victorian government's Protecting Biodiversity program
  East Gippsland Shire Council and farmers welcome $2.75 million for feral pig control, focusing on public land, local employment, and coordinated efforts to protect agriculture, biodiversity, and regional communities.
• David Littleproud says new mapping reveals Labor's renewables damage, strengthening the call for nuclear energy
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has accused the Albanese government of removing veterans' rights to review bravery awards, warning proposed reforms undermine fairness, independence, and recognition of Australia's war heroes.
• One Gippsland urges stronger climate action and investment to build regional disaster resilience
  One Gippsland is calling for urgent government action, investment and policy reform to strengthen disaster resilience, improve planning, and protect coastal communities facing increasing climate-related risks and rising economic costs.
• West Gippsland CMA’s annual report showcases environmental achievements from mountain headwaters to coastal waters
  West Gippsland CMA’s Annual Report highlights major 2024–25 achievements restoring rivers, wetlands and habitats, supporting communities, protecting wildlife, and strengthening catchment health from mountain headwaters to the coast.
• Darren Chester warns Labor gun law changes unfairly target regions, distract from government extremism failures
  Gippsland MP Darren Chester says Labor’s firearm law changes unfairly punish regional Australians, distract from failures tackling anti-Semitism and extremism, and won’t prevent terrorism like the Bondi attack tragedy violence.
• Crime in Victoria surges to record highs under Allan Labor, leaving communities less safe, says Tim Bull
  Crime in Victoria has reached record levels under the Allan Labor government, with rising offences and family violence, police under-resourced, and weakened laws leaving communities increasingly unsafe, says Tim Bull.
• Melina Bath urges fair firearm reforms protecting law-abiding owners while maintaining community safety in Victoria
  Melina Bath urges fair firearm law reforms, protecting responsible owners’ rights while strengthening enforcement against crime and improving safety through evidence-based, proportionate measures.
• Life Saving Victoria 2024-25 Drowning Report reveals alarming increases, with 52 deaths and 123 non-fatal incidents
  Life Saving Victoria’s 2024-25 Drowning Report reveals 52 deaths and 123 non-fatal incidents, exceeding 10-year averages, with rises among youth, seniors, multicultural communities, and during traditionally cooler months.
• David Littleproud urges Labor to deliver interest-free loans as farmers voice urgent drought forum concerns
  Nationals leader David Littleproud says the Drought Forum reinforced urgent calls for interest-free farm loans, urging Labor to act swiftly as farmers face worsening hardship, particularly in South Australia's dairy industry.
• Martin Cameron criticises WorkSafe, calling system flawed after apprentice Byron Foley’s catastrophic injury
  Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Victoria’s "fundamentally broken" WorkSafe system, highlighting apprentice Byron Foley’s catastrophic injury, ongoing struggles, and calling for urgent reform, fairer compensation, and better support services.
• Tim Bull urges better local firewood access from roadside clearing to ease East Gippsland shortages before winter arrives
  Tim Bull urges authorities to make roadside clearing timber available locally, expand collection areas, and improve access to firewood for East Gippsland communities ahead of winter shortages.
• Darren Chester quits shadow ministry, vows to keep fighting for Gippsland and regional Australia
  Gippsland MP Darren Chester has resigned from the Coalition shadow ministry but says he remains committed to representing Gippslanders and regional Australians in Parliament despite political tensions over legislation proposed.
• David Littleproud urges Australians to support local farmers amid rising imported food and supermarket pressures
  Nationals Leader David Littleproud urges Australians to buy local food as farmers face soaring costs, supermarket pressures, and rising imports, warning inaction threatens food security and the future of Australian agriculture.
• 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.
• Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades boost tourism, safety, and local businesses with $3.8M government support
  Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades, supported by $3.8 million government funding, improve safety, accessibility, tourism, and local business, while celebrating Indigenous culture and supporting bushfire-affected communities.
• Tim Bull urges Gippsland East households to apply for $100 Power Saving Bonus amid rising costs
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull urges locals to apply for the $100 Power Saving Bonus, helping households manage rising costs. Eligible residents can seek assistance at his Bairnsdale office.
• Tim Bull urges faster rollout of cabins, blaming Melbourne bureaucracy for delays, not local parks staff
  The first Cape Conran replacement cabin has finally been installed after six years, with calls to fast-track remaining bushfire recovery cabins.
• Gippsland Water urges customers to follow permanent water saving rules during heat waves to maintain reliable supply and stability
  Gippsland Water urges customers to use water wisely during heatwaves, follow permanent water saving rules, report leaks, and help maintain stable supply amid high demand and extreme conditions.
• Bass Coast Shire Council urges MAV to demand transparency, accountability and community engagement in State planning decisions
  Bass Coast Shire Council will urge MAV to demand greater transparency, accountability, and community consultation in State Government planning decisions, highlighting concerns over the Development Facilitation Program and local impacts.
• City of Traralgon Band gifts council commemorative photograph after successful international remembrance tour
  The City of Traralgon Band gifted Latrobe City Council a photograph commemorating their UK and Europe Tour of Remembrance, including performances at Menin Gate and recognition with two awards.
• Melina Bath warns neighbourhood houses face financial strain, risking essential services due to stagnant government funding
  Hundreds rallied at Victoria Parliament urging Allan government to provide funding certainty for neighbourhood houses, protecting essential community services supporting vulnerable residents and preventing closures.
• Tim Bull urges community action to prevent gender-based violence during global sixteen-day activism campaign
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull urges community action during the sixteen-day campaign to prevent gender-based violence, promote respect, and support safety, accountability, and cultural change across all spaces.
• Danny O'Brien praises Gippsland community's generosity supporting Foster Kids after ram raid destroyed Christmas gifts
  Danny O'Brien praised Gippsland's generosity after a ram raid devastated A Better Life For Foster Kids, urging continued support through toy donations, PJ Day participation, and community involvement to brighten children's lives.
• Darren Chester urges Dicky Bill workers, families to attend Maffra Support and Services Expo on 10 December 2025
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Dicky Bill workers, families to attend Maffra Support & Services Expo December 10 for employment, training, financial, and wellbeing assistance from 20 local exhibitors.
• Melina Bath urges eastern Victoria residents to prepare properties and plans for heightened bushfire risk this summer
  The Nationals’ Melina Bath urges eastern Victoria residents to prepare properties, review Bushfire Survival Plans, and stay informed to reduce risk and protect families, pets, and communities this summer.
• Melina Bath urges safe driving, responsible camping across Eastern Victoria during busy Australia Day weekend celebrations
  Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath urges motorists to drive safely and campers to follow regulations during Australia Day weekend, respecting fire warnings, the environment, and local community events.
• Melina Bath urges action on Gippsland youth crime with tougher penalties, stronger policing, and restored diversion funding
  Melina Bath has demanded urgent action on Gippsland's escalating youth crime, calling for tougher penalties, stronger police presence, and restored diversion program funding to protect communities and restore safety.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to obtain licences as new state licensing scheme is enforced from 1 February 2026
  Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to comply with Victoria’s new licensing scheme, aiming to curb illegal sales, organised crime, and ensure consistent enforcement for safer regional communities.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to send EOIs and apply for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants supporting local community volunteers
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to submit EOIs for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants, offering $1,000-$5,000 to support volunteers, strengthen community connections, and remove barriers to participation.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland South women to participate in free BreastScreen Victoria program for early breast cancer detection
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien urges women aged 50-74 to use free BreastScreen Victoria services, improving early detection, reversing post-pandemic screening declines, and saving lives.
• Darren Chester confronts Agriculture Minister over European deal, but she won’t call it fair
  The Albanese government’s EU free trade deal has been widely criticised by farmers and industry bodies for weak market access, unfair concessions, and restrictions harming dairy, red meat, and wine sectors.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland Sporting Clubs to register for Get Active Kids Voucher Program reopening on October
  Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland sporting clubs to register for the Get Active Kids Voucher Program, supporting families with up to $200 per child for sports fees, uniforms, and equipment.
• Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs and celebrating regional products
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs, celebrating regional produce, and helping small enterprises like Sale’s "Love in a Jar" thrive across the community.
• Darren Chester says Krauatungalung Walk project progresses after EGSC and GLAWAC meetings this week
  Federal MP Darren Chester says the Krauatungalung Walk project is back on track, with boardwalk works underway, Indigenous artworks planned, and completion aimed by Christmas to benefit locals and visitors.
• Gippsland Water urges customers to include alternate water sources in bushfire plans during fire danger period
  Gippsland Water urges customers to include alternate water sources in bushfire plans, store emergency drinking water, and follow CFA advice during the Fire Danger Period from 27 October to 1 May 2026.
• Omeo’s Day Avenue upgraded with safer streets, accessible paths, bike parking, greenery, and Victorian government investment
  Omeo’s Day Avenue upgraded with safer streets, accessible paths, signage, parking, bike facilities, greenery, and $200,000 Victorian government investment, creating jobs and enhancing experiences for locals and visitors.
• Tim Bull urges local clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program supporting volunteers, equipment, and program delivery by 26 November 2025
  Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East sporting clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program by 26 November 2025, supporting uniforms, equipment, volunteers, events, travel, and governance development.
• One Gippsland urges new major event to replace MotoGP, boosting tourism and regional economy
  One Gippsland urges the 2026 Victorian budget to replace MotoGP with a new major event, boosting tourism, jobs, and economic growth while supporting cultural, nature-based, and renewable energy initiatives.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippslanders to use free blind safety kits to prevent tragic child accidents
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien urges residents to order free Consumer Affairs Victoria blind safety kits, warning unsecured curtain cords are a hazard and simple fixes can prevent child deaths.
• Darren Chester urges sun safety as Australia’s high melanoma rates stress risks, awareness, and early detection
  Federal MP Darren Chester warns Gippslanders of Australia’s high melanoma rates, urging sun protection, early detection, and following the Five Sun Safe Rules as UV levels rise heading into summer.
• Latrobe City Council endorses Economic Development Advisory Committee to drive diverse, regional economic growth
  Latrobe City Council will establish an Economic Development Advisory Committee with diverse industry leaders and an independent chair to guide post-coal transition economic growth and investment opportunities.
• Council urges transparent, community-focused approach for battery energy storage systems across Baw Baw
  Baw Baw Council raises concerns over proposed BESS projects, urging transparency, protection of prime agricultural land, community input, and stronger oversight of sites outside designated renewable energy zones.
• Melina Bath urges East Gippsland cricket clubs, schools and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants by 27 March 2026
  Melina Bath encourages regional cricket clubs, schools, and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants supporting facility upgrades and inclusive participation opportunities. Applications close 27 March 2026.
• Danny O'Brien urges families to claim up to $200 for kids' sport through Get Active program by 31 December 2025
  Danny O'Brien is urging families to apply for the Get Active Kids program, offering up to $200 for children's sport and recreation costs to ease cost-of-living pressures and encourage participation.
• Danny O’Brien urges AusNet to improve reliability amid Gippsland’s frequent power outages and rising costs
  Danny O’Brien has criticised ongoing Gippsland power outages, urging AusNet to improve reliability as households, farms and businesses face disruptions, rising costs, and increased reliance on expensive diesel generators.
• Melina Bath urges parents, carers, and educators to provide submissions to improve child safety by 30 November 2025
  Victoria's Child Safety Inquiry calls for public submissions to investigate early childhood education failures, restore family confidence, and recommend reforms ensuring children receive safe, high-quality care and protection.
• Peri Urban Councils Victoria urges federal action on black and grey telecommunication spots to support regional sustainability and growth
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria urges federal action on black and grey telecommunication spots, highlighting risks to communities, emergency warnings, and the need for essential infrastructure recognition and targeted investment.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants now available until 31 January 2026
  Federal MP Darren Chester is urging Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants supporting travel and competition costs. Eligible juniors aged 12-18 can apply before 31 January 2026.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippslanders to donate early to Giving Trees and help bring Christmas joy to foster children
  Gippslanders are encouraged to donate early to A Better Life for Foster Kids' Giving Trees, helping ensure every child in out-of-home care receives a Christmas gift this festive season.
• Darren Chester urges young Gippslanders to apply for 2026 National Youth Parliament Leadership Program by 21 November 2025
  Darren Chester is encouraging Gippsland students aged 16 - 17 to apply for the 2026 National Youth Parliament, offering a fully funded week-long leadership and democracy program in Canberra.
• Darren Chester raises concerns over gaps, inconsistencies in autism education after meeting worried local mother
  Darren Chester raised concerns about gaps in autism education after meeting Metung mother Lily Martyn, whose son George may miss specialist school due to strict IQ-based eligibility criteria.
• East Gippsland Water urges community to stop wipes and grease blocking sewers with Wipezilla campaign
  East Gippsland Water’s Wipezilla campaign urges the community to prevent sewer blockages by avoiding wet wipes, grease, and food scraps, promoting education, responsible habits, and environmental protection across the region.
• Darren Chester urges more fuel reduction to protect Victorian communities from bushfires
  Darren Chester urged increased fuel reduction on Victorian public land, warning unmanaged forests worsen bushfires, and criticised the native timber industry shutdown while praising volunteers and community resilience.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland communities to participate in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, 1 March 2026
  Danny O’Brien encourages Gippsland communities, schools, and groups to join Clean Up Australia Day on 1 March 2026, protecting beaches, waterways, and local areas while building on last year’s success.
• Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local growers, highlighting family-owned 'Get Fresh Gippsland' business
  Darren Chester is urging Gippslanders to support local growers this Christmas, highlighting family-run Get Fresh Gippsland for supplying fresh, locally grown produce while strengthening the regional economy.
• Southern Rural Water urges water users to monitor, manage, and comply as Spring forecast warns above-average rainfall
  The Bureau predicts above-average spring rainfall and warmer temperatures across eastern Australia. Southern Rural Water urges monitoring usage, maintaining bores, and following regulations to ensure fair, efficient water management.
• Latrobe City Council urges coordinated workforce transition ahead of Yallourn W closure 2028
  Latrobe City Council urges a coordinated workforce transition ahead of Yallourn W Power Station’s 2028 closure, supporting an Energy Industry Jobs Plan to protect workers, families, local businesses, and regional economic resilience.
• East Gippsland Council urges drivers to follow parking limits, protect access and support local businesses this festive season
  East Gippsland drivers are urged to follow festive-season parking limits, respecting time restrictions, loading zones, and disabled bays to ensure town accessibility and support local businesses.
• Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses this holiday season
  Federal Member Darren Chester encourages Gippslanders to shop local this Christmas, supporting artisans, makers, and small businesses like Emporium 3844, boosting the regional economy and celebrating community talent.
• Martin Cameron urges Energy Minister to lift outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon
  Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development.
• Life Saving Victoria urges parents to continue children’s swimming lessons to meet water safety benchmarks and prevent drowning risks
  Life Saving Victoria warns many children to stop swimming lessons early, falling short of water safety benchmarks, urging parents to continue lessons to ensure skills, safety, and survival in pools and open water.
• Life Saving Victoria urges parents to continue children’s swimming lessons to meet water safety benchmarks and prevent drowning risks
  Life Saving Victoria warns many children to stop swimming lessons early, falling short of water safety benchmarks, urging parents to continue lessons to ensure skills, safety, and survival in pools and open water.
• East Gippsland Shire Council urges protect health and air quality, burn dry wood and maintain heaters to reduce smoke this winter
  Residents are urged to burn only dry, untreated wood, maintain heaters, and consider alternatives to reduce smoke, protecting health and improving air quality this winter.
• Baw Baw Shire Council urges community groups to prepare applications for Community Project grants round 2 from 2 until 27 February 2026
  Round Two of Baw Baw Shire’s Community Project Grants opens in February, offering community groups up to $5,000, with Applications by Appointment mandatory before submitting proposals by 27 February 2026.
• Peri Urban Councils advocate for housing, infrastructure, and policy recognition with state government
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria met government leaders at Spring Street, advocating for housing solutions, essential infrastructure funding, and policy recognition to support rapidly growing peri urban communities sustainably.
• East Gippsland Mayor Jodie Ashworth urges vigilance, community support and preparedness during recent extreme heat and bushfire risks
  East Gippsland Mayor acknowledges recent extreme heat, commends community responses, urges vigilance, bushfire preparedness, checking on vulnerable people, accessing support services, and using Vic Emergency app and Emergency Dashboard.
• Martin Cameron criticises stalled Traralgon underpass, urges overpass alternative for delayed pedestrian safety project
  Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises nearly three-year delay on Traralgon underpass, urging government to clarify plans or consider a safer overpass for students and pedestrians crossing the train line.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks independent chairperson for CEO Employment Committee role, submit quotations by 20 April 2026
  Council seeks qualified consultants for Independent Chairperson of the CEO Employment Committee, overseeing CEO performance. The advisory role spans two years, with extensions, and includes at least two meetings annually.
• Life Saving Victoria urges water safety precautions as heatwave drives crowds to beaches and pools
  Life Saving Victoria warns Victorians to prioritise water safety during this week’s 40°C heatwave, swim at patrolled locations, supervise children, avoid alcohol, and always swim with a friend.
• South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
  Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings.
• Mayor Rochelle Halstead honoured with MAV 10-year Service Award for her dedication to local government
  Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead has received the MAV 10-Year Service Award, recognising her decade of dedicated leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening local government and the Bass Coast community.
• Peri-Urban Councils warn residents stranded, demand urgent investment in reliable public transport infrastructure
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria warns fast-growing communities face car dependency due to poor public transport, urging government investment in reliable, frequent buses, better timetables, and long-term integrated transport planning.