Benalla’s economic future takes shape
Benalla Rural City Council has taken a significant step towards aiming to transform the region into a world-class industrial hub, hosting the first Benalla Future Economy Employment Precinct Innovation Working Group (IWG) meeting on Tuesday 10 February.
The meeting brought together 20 key local stakeholders to begin shaping a visionary plan for the precinct. The group’s collective expertise will guide the development of a hub for advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and regional logistics, aiming to drive long-term economic growth and job creation in Benalla.
Benalla Rural City Council CEO, Peter Keane, said the collaboration marked a pivotal moment for the community’s future.
“Bringing our local industry leaders together is the best way to make sure this precinct delivers real benefits for everyone in Benalla Rural City,” Peter Keane said. “This is about creating new jobs, attracting investment, and building a strong, future-ready economy for our families and businesses. It’s great to see everyone come together to make it happen.”
The IWG will meet regularly to provide crucial insights for Council to develop an Infrastructure Needs Analysis, a Conceptual Masterplan, and an Integrated Transport Strategy, which will form the strategic foundations for the precinct. Their involvement is vital for ensuring that the precinct design is practical, innovative, and meets the needs of current and future industries.
This initiative is supported by a $240,000 grant from the Community Development Fund, as part of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s (DEECA) Forestry Transition Program. The program assists communities impacted by the end of commercial native timber harvesting to diversify their economies and explore new opportunities.