Council endorses future focused Community Plan 2025-29
Published on 24 October 2025
The City of Whittlesea has adopted its Community Plan 2025-29, an inclusive strategy designed to support residents of all backgrounds and life stages.
Developed over 12 months and shaped by a comprehensive community engagement program, the Plan sets a clear direction for how Council will partner with the community to improve wellbeing, liveability, and equity across the city.
Grounded in local data and community insights, the four-year strategic plan is built around 12 key themes that reflect the diverse aspects of daily life; from community safety and connection, accessible transport, and environmental enjoyment to participation in local culture, services and activities.
The Plan, informed by feedback from more than 4,500 residents, local organisations, and stakeholders, sets out 55 strategic priorities and integrates Council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan and Disability Action Plan into one strategic framework, ensuring cohesive and coordinated action.
To turn the Plan into action, Council has also endorsed the Community Action Plan 2025-26, which outlines 46 targeted initiatives for delivery in the year ahead. These actions are practical, measurable and aligned with the long-term vision of Whittlesea 2040 A Place for All, providing a clear and transparent framework for delivery.
Together, the Community Plan and Action Plan create a clear roadmap, guiding Council’s work and our partnerships with the community over the next four years and ensures transparency and accountability as Council delivers on what matters most to our residents.
Delivered over four phases, Council’s community engagement process was extensive and inclusive. It included 35 community-based pop-up events in 15 suburbs, four focus groups, and a series of digital and in-person feedback opportunities. Council also hosted 15 workshops with local community health organisations to inform the priorities of the Health and Disability Plans. This broad approach ensured representation across age groups, genders, and cultural backgrounds, with 97% of responses coming from City of Whittlesea residents.
The Community Plan directly addresses issues raised by the community, including safety and violence prevention, physical and mental wellbeing, homelessness, housing affordability, waste management, and barriers to employment and participation. It also outlines Council’s continued commitment to practical improvements such as safer roads, enhanced transport options, well-maintained parks and accessible community facilities.
Council extends its thanks to everyone who participated in the year-long community engagement journey. Your feedback and ideas have helped shape a Community Plan that is inclusive, practical and future-focused.
Quote attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Martin Taylor:
“Our Community Plan 2025-29 and Community Action Plan 2025-26 represent the collective voices and vision of our community. More than 4,500 community voices and residents have contributed through surveys, pop up sessions and workshops across our municipality, shaping 12 themes that reflect what matters most to the people in the City of Whittlesea.
The Community Plan 2025-29 sets out the strategic direction and long-term goals for the next four years while the Community Action Plan 2025-26 details the practical steps that Council will take in the coming year to turn these goals into measurable results.
Together they provide a clear, transparent and accountable roadmap, ensuring that every decision we make is guided by evidence, integrity and community priorities. Most importantly, they embody partnership between Council, our residents and our community organisations to build a city that is safe, connected, sustainable and inclusive.”