Supported by a $240,000 Community Development Fund grant through the Victorian Government’s Forestry Transition Program, the project was established to explore opportunities for new industry, investment and employment growth in Benalla. The Forestry Transition Program assists communities impacted by the end of commercial native timber harvesting to diversify their economies and create new opportunities for future prosperity.

The vision for FEEP is ambitious: to position Benalla as a leading regional destination for advanced manufacturing, logistics, sustainable industries and future-focused investment.

Bringing Industry Together

A key part of the project was the establishment of the Future Economy Employment Precinct Innovation Working Group (IWG).

The IWG brought together representatives from local industry, business, education, infrastructure providers, utilities, government agencies and economic development organisations. Their collective knowledge and experience played a crucial role in shaping the future vision for the precinct.

Meeting regularly throughout the project, the group provided valuable insight into the opportunities, challenges and infrastructure needs required to support future industry growth. This collaborative approach ensured the project was informed by local expertise while considering emerging industries and broader regional opportunities.

The IWG’s contribution helped guide the development of the project’s key strategic documents and ensured the precinct was planned with practicality, innovation and long-term economic outcomes in mind.

Building the Foundations

Through extensive research, technical analysis and stakeholder engagement, the project delivered a suite of strategic planning tools that will help guide future decision-making and investment attraction activities, including:

• Infrastructure Needs Analysis
• Integrated Transport Strategy
• Future Economy Employment Precinct Masterplan
• Investment Prospectus
• 3D Visualisations and Flythrough

Together, these documents identify future development opportunities, infrastructure requirements and transport improvements needed to support long-term industrial growth across the precinct.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The Future Economy Employment Precinct is more than a masterplan. It represents a shared vision developed through collaboration between Council, industry and key stakeholders who all recognise the importance of creating a strong and resilient local economy.

The project identifies opportunities to support local business growth, attract new investment, improve freight and transport connectivity, and create the conditions needed for future jobs and economic diversification.

While the masterplan is a long-term strategic document, it provides a clear roadmap for future advocacy, infrastructure investment and economic development initiatives that will help position Benalla for future success.

Through strong partnerships, industry leadership and strategic planning, the Future Economy Employment Precinct lays the foundation for a more innovative, connected and prosperous future for Benalla.