Glenelg Shire leaders take regional priorities to Parliament

Published on 20 October 2025

SWVA in Parliament

Glenelg Shire Council leaders have joined their southwest counterparts in Melbourne to advocate for urgent regional priorities, including drought relief, road upgrades, tourism investment and the removal of the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund (ESVF).

Glenelg Shire CEO Helen Havercroft and Mayor Cr Karen Stephens descended on Parliament House late last week to represent the Glenelg Shire as part of the South West Victoria Alliance following their State budget submission.

The two-day jam-packed visit included meetings with Treasurer Jaclyn Symes MP, Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence, Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward, Shadow Minister for Education Evan Mulholland MP, Shadow Treasurer Jess Wilson MP, as well as South West MPs to advocate for the key priorities for the region.

These include:

  • A $1.25 million drought relief package to build resilience in farming communities;
  • A $5 million Visit Victoria campaign to boost tourism and support small businesses;
  • $50 million in road upgrades to improve safety and productivity;
  • And a $2 million regional energy plan to ensure equitable growth and energy access.

Glenelg Shire CEO Helen Havercroft said it was a valuable opportunity to ensure the Southwests’ voice was heard at the highest levels of government.

“We know that drought assistance, tourism, roads and the local economy are our community’s biggest concerns. Without further investment in these areas, our region could be at risk of being left behind,” she said.

“By working in partnership with neighbouring Councils, we’re amplifying our message and showing that we’re united in our push for fair and sustainable outcomes.”

Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Karen Stephens reinforced the importance of collaboration and persistence.

“We haven’t given up the fight against the ESVF. Our communities deserve better, and we’ll keep advocating until we see meaningful change against this excessive and unfair tax,” she said.

“The SWVA gives us a stronger voice, and we’re using it to push for the investment and respect our region deserves.”

The South West Victoria Alliance includes the Shires of Corangamite, Glenelg, Moyne, Southern Grampians and Warrnambool City Council —alongside Deakin University and Wannon Water. For more information, visit: https://southwestvictoriaalliance.com.au/. 

 

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