Ararat Rural City Council are pleased to announce its new draft 10-year Environmental Sustainability Strategy, which aims to provide a clear direction for the sustainable development and environmental management of the municipality.

Our region boasts several unique and diverse natural landscapes that are home to iconic and rare Australian species, including endangered plants and animals. The municipality also hosts wetlands classed as significant due to use for breeding and habitat by threatened species, high biodiversity value, or their role as a link between other crucial habitat patches.

The proposed strategy contains ten objectives, pertaining to three key themes of environmental sustainability:

Theme 1: Climate Change

1.1 We will contribute to climate change mitigation.

1.2 We are prepared for the impacts of climate change.

1.3 Council infrastructure, businesses and the community are adaptive and resilient to a changing climate.

Theme 2: Natural Landscapes and Biodiversity

2.1. The environment is well monitored and understood, and conditions are maintained above legislatively required standards.

2.2. Threats to our environment are identified and controlled.

2.3. Native species, populations, and communities are enhanced.

Theme 3: Sustainable Living

3.1. The municipality is energy efficient, supported largely by renewable sources.

3.2. Water is used and reused effectively.

3.3. Waste generation is avoided. Reusable, recyclable and compostable products are diverted from landfill.

3.4. Our waste and energy needs are managed locally.

The proposed strategy will be supported by measures of success to ensure continual alignment and progress towards these objectives.

“We’ve undertaken extensive consultation with the Environmental Working Group to reach a consensus on our environmental sustainability strategy,” says Dr Tim Harrison, CEO of Ararat Rural City Council. “This initiative is a testament to our collective efforts, offering practical suggestions and clear metrics for measuring our progress.

“Aligned with our strategic framework, it signifies Council's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.”

Ararat Rural City Council has commenced community consultation on its Draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024 – 2034, following a Council resolution at the Tuesday 25 June Council Meeting.

Council will review the feedback at the September 2024 Council meeting.