PLAN GREATER BENDIGO For Greater Bendigo and supporting the Loddon Campaspe Region

Plan Greater Bendigo Action Plan

January 2018 A collaborative plan Plan Greater Bendigo is a collaborative plan by the City of Greater Bendigo with the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and the regional office of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP). Funding support was provided by the Victorian Planning Authority.

Acknowledgement of Country The ancestors and descendants of the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung are the traditional owners of this Country. The City of Greater Bendigo acknowledges that they have been custodians for many centuries and continue to perform age old ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We all acknowledge their living culture and their unique role in the life of this region.

2 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan Table of contents

Many have contributed 4 Framework Plan 5 Executive Summary 6 Summary of engagement 8 The project principles 9 Purpose of the Plan Greater Bendigo Action Plan 10 Projects 10 Relationship to other strategies 11 Project selection 12 Plan Greater Bendigo Governance and Implementation 13 Monitoring and review 13 Context 14 An adaptable and innovative regional economy 16 Healthy and inclusive communities 24 A stronger and more vibrant city centre 32 A resourceful and sustainable region 38

Action Plan Summary* 44 of contents Table

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 3 Many have contributed

The City, VPA and DELWP would like to thank all those who have We would like to also thank all those in the community who have taken contributed to the development of Plan Greater Bendigo. the time to review and to provide comment on the draft Plan Greater A special thank you goes to the members of the Steering Committee Bendigo documents. and Technical Reference Group who have contributed their time in attending numerous meetings and provided significant input into Plan Greater Bendigo.

Organisations represented on the Plan Greater Bendigo Steering Committee or Technical Reference Group

• Bendigo Bank • Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation • Be.Bendigo • La Trobe University • Bendigo Health • Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnership • Bendigo Sustainability Group • Loddon Mallee Waste and Resource Recovery Group • Bendigo TAFE • North Central Catchment Management Authority • Coliban Water • Regional Development • Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and • Transport for Victoria Resources • Urban Development Institute of Australia • Department of Education and Training • VicRoads • Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning • Victorian Planning Authority • Department of Health and Human Services

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Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 5 Executive Summary

Overview to meet the needs of a growing and ever changing a greater diversity of employment, more and better Infrastructure is a broad term which can refer to population. However, by preparing for this Greater facilities and service options. everything from roads, railways, cycle paths, drainage, Bendigo will be well placed to build on its reputation As we grow we have the opportunity to push the waste management facilities, through to community as a highly liveable community and to better attract boundaries and opt for bold infrastructure choices, centres and schools. When infrastructure functions investment, jobs and visitors. which may be controversial, but will have wide as intended and is delivered and timed in the right Growing at the current rate of 2 per cent, the reaching long term positive impacts on Greater location we think little of it. But when it is not, it can population will reach 200,000 by around 2050. While Bendigo and the region. create significant issues. this will present us with challenges, it also brings While the planning, delivery and ongoing with it many opportunities such as the potential for maintenance of infrastructure can be expensive, if provided in a timely manner, in a way in which

Executive Summary supports growth, and delivered in the right locations, it can be transformative. The broader benefits of infrastructure delivery can range from investment attraction and job creation, to improvements in individual health. It can even lead to a fairer, safer and more equitable community and these improvements can span generations. The delivery of infrastructure is often not the responsibility of a single organisation but various levels of government and multiple agencies, stakeholders, the private sector and the community. Given the complexities involved in the planning and delivering of infrastructure this needs to take place often years in advance of delivery. This includes preparing business cases, setting aside land, addressing any legislative requirements and attracting funding - all before detailed planning and construction can even begin. All this is difficult and often not well recognised or rewarded. Therefore it can become easy to focus on the quick wins and the delivery of day-to-day services to meet immediate needs. It is much more difficult to take the time to be strategic, to take a step back and to take a holistic long term look at how we plan Figure 1: Bendigo City Centre by night

6 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan Plan Greater Bendigo investment and significantly add to the quality Headline statistics Plan Greater Bendigo is a ‘first of its kind’ of life for all residents. initiative which has been identified as the Some of these projects require action Now 2050 first stage of implementing the Loddon by Council, while many others would be Mallee South (also referred to as the Loddon delivered in partnership with the community, Campaspe) Regional Growth Plan which government and other Councils. These sets out a long term planning framework for projects do not have a fixed commitment; the region. Plan Greater Bendigo has been they are proposals to shape the future. prepared in collaboration with the Victorian Planning Authority and the regional office of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, with input from various agencies, stakeholders, Council and the community. Through Plan Greater Bendigo we present a consolidated list of the top infrastructure projects for Greater Bendigo and the region more broadly. This builds on the existing work and strategies already prepared by Council,

State Government, as well as considering Summary Executive privately led initiatives. There are also some new ideas, which although in their infancy, 83,000 dwellings build on our unique strengths and have the potential to set us apart from other regional cities. In developing Plan Greater Bendigo, Council has sought a wide range of advice and spent considerable time imagining and visioning the future; both how it might pan out and how actions and infrastructure could shape a better future. Council has developed a series 12.1% of 14.4% of population of what are called ‘transformational projects’. population aged over 70 by These are projects which have the potential aged over 70 2036 to facilitate positive change, encourage

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 7 Summary of engagement • Outer arterial road – preparation of a business case for a western and northern Council consulted with a number of agencies, the community and stakeholders to by-pass has been identified, in line with the development of the Marong prepare Plan Greater Bendigo. Business Park and development to the west of the City. • Bendigo Law Courts – included Consultation on the draft Plan Greater Bendigo documents • Managing Groundwater – turning a problem into a resource – included under Council consulted with the community on a draft Plan Greater Bendigo from 23 better using our existing water resources October until 1 December using a range of consultation and engagement methods. • Reimagining the Bendigo Creek – included This included advertising in local papers, facebook posts, website updates, a video There were a number of other projects and ideas identified which have been and brochures. Council officers also attended two listening posts in Bendigo during considered in the preparation of Plan Greater Bendigo. Importantly while the the consultation period. majority of these have not been included in Plan Greater Bendigo, predominately Over the consultation period there were 98 online surveys completed, as well as 9 due to size and responsibility, many have merit and should be considered to be submissions on behalf of agencies and stakeholder groups. progressed through other avenues. Executive Summary Overall feedback on the draft documents was positive, with a number of submissions requesting changes. There was no clear stand out project which was identified as the highest priority by respondents. The most commonly mentioned project in the consultation that wasn’t included in the list of projects was the Central Deborah Goldmine which was mentioned by 15 respondents, followed by the City Centre revitalisation, mentioned by six respondents. Consultation on the Plan Greater Bendigo discussion paper

The Plan Greater Bendigo discussion paper identified 70 infrastructure projects of benefit to Greater Bendigo and the region. The community were asked to identify their top and bottom infrastructure projects. Council consulted on a Plan Greater Bendigo Discussion Paper from 20 March until 28 April 2017. A total of 294 surveys were completed over the consultation period, with a further 19 submissions received. There were a variety of views as to the top and bottom projects. Community engagement was one of the inputs into determining the final project selection. The top five projects and how they have been included are summarised as follows: • Securing Bendigo’s Long Term Water Supply (integrated Water opportunities) – included under better using our existing water resources

8 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan The project principles Four key principles have been identified to support a growing region: Following much discussion and debate, internally and with State Government agencies, we have landed on the following principles and list of projects for Plan Greater Bendigo. The selection of these projects has also been informed by discussions with Councillors and community feedback, particularly through consultation on the Plan Greater Bendigo Discussion Paper.

An adaptable Healthy A stronger A resourceful and and and more and innovative inclusive vibrant sustainable economy communities city centre region

Improve access to education Strive for inclusive prosperity by Serve the needs of a growing Be a leader in the implementation from an early age, better connect facilitating better access to reliable city and region with diverse of One Planet Living and consider education and employment transport, creating strong Aboriginal employment and services, our relationship with the natural pathways and facilitate job creation communities, improving community active and highly valued public environment in all that we do to support a growing region wellbeing and building social spaces, and a diverse residential

connections population Summary Executive Figure 2: Principles

Why are some projects more specific than others? Plan Greater Bendigo is a long term strategic document and has considered projects over a 30 year time frame. Given the longevity of the plan, there are some projects which naturally will have progressed further than others. In instances where the detailed project planning has already taken place, or where implementation has commenced, it is much easier to clearly articulate the project its and outcomes. There are other projects where detailed background work needs to be undertaken, a business case prepared, or a strategy written. In these instances projects have been included, as planning for the specific project or the concept is important, and will provide Greater Bendigo with a unique or competitive advantage as we move towards 200,000.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 9 Project selection

The draft Plan Greater Bendigo Each of the 18 listed projects: In its final form, with a clear set of agreed priorities, Plan Greater Bendigo will Discussion Paper identified 70 • are consistent with local and/or provide a strong advocacy tool to State and Federal Government and the private infrastructure projects of benefit to state policy sector for targeted investment to shape and transform Greater Bendigo as we Greater Bendigo and the region. This • support economic growth and move towards 200,000. list has been refined down to the development current list of four principles and 18 • are in addition to Council’s Is the pr oject supported by projects. ongoing service offering local and state policy? No Don’t proceed Figure 3 outlines some of the • benefit and are valued by the considerations involved in determining community

the final project selection. • have support and commitment Don’t proceed from agencies/organisations to housing and economic growth as we No move to 200, 000

Executive Summary deliver

Does the project have a Don’t proceed unless clear Criteria for assessing Plan Greater Bendigo Projects No reason other wise Low Medium High Significant Economic impact Contribution to regional job growth, increased investment, Did the project rate highly during Don’t proceed unless clear No productivity and innovation reason otherwise Social impact Contribution to improving wellbeing and creating a more inclusive and resilient community Did project rate highly against No Don’t proceed unless clear Environmental Contribution to limiting our environmental impact, reducing reason otherwise impact our consumption and adapting to the future impacts of climate change Does the project relate to or build Don’t proceed unless clear Existing linkages Contribution to building on existing strategies, has the project on other projects? No reason otherwise been planned and funds are required to take the project to the

next stage Transformational Contribution to improving the liveability of not only Greater Can the relevant agency/agencies commit to deliver the project, or impact Bendigo but the broader region for both existing and future No Don’t proceed unless clear undertake the relevant background reason otherwise generations studies, if funds are available?

Funding of infrastructure Figure 3: Project decision process All projects included at the time of writing have been only partially funded or not funded at all.

10 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan Purpose of the Plan Greater Bendigo Action Plan A stronger and more The purpose of this document is to outline the steps involved to implement each of the 18 projects over the short, medium and longer term. This ranges from vibrant city centre behaviour change through to planning and delivery.

Projects have been listed under the relevant principles. • Bendigo Law Courts • Bendigo Railway Station Activity Centre • Bendigo “gov-hub” Office Co-Location of Government Agencies Projects • Golden Dragon Museum/Bendigo Chinatown The final list of 18 projects are of varying scales, with some projects having the potential to lead to significant investment, jobs and to change the urban form of the city. While some projects are of a smaller scale, all projects are transformational A resourceful and in their own way and the delivery of each would help to create a more liveable sustainable region community for all residents.

• Reimagining the Bendigo Creek An adaptable and • Better using our existing water resources • Plan for a renewable energy future innovative economy • New waste management arrangements

• Marong Business Park • Bendigo Airport – Business Precinct and Terminal Summary Executive • Revitalise Bendigo TAFE • Short term hostel/student accommodation in the City Centre • Coordinated program of new school development to meet growing demand

Healthy and inclusive communities

• Upgrade the rail track between Bendigo and • Connectivity for small towns and neighbouring regional centres • Bendigo metro rail - continuing implementation • Community hubs • Dja Dja Wurrung corporate and community centre Figure 4: Bendigo Farmers’ Market

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 11 Relationship to other strategies

Various strategies at both a state and local level have informed the preparation of Plan Greater Bendigo. These strategies include:

• Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth Plan (also referred to as the Loddon Campaspe Regional Growth Plan) 2014 • Victoria’s 30-year Infrastructure Strategy 2016 • Commercial Land and Activity Centre Strategy 2015 • Connecting Greater Bendigo Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) 2015 • Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021 • Greater Bendigo Housing Strategy 2016 • Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan – Strategic Context and Issues Report 2016 Executive Summary • Greater Bendigo Residential Strategy 2014

Relationship to the Council Community Plan 2017-2021

Many of the shorter term actions within Plan Greater Bendigo are consistent with the Community Plan 2017- Greater Bendigo Creating the world’s most 2021. While Council will ultimately adopt Plan Greater liveable community Bendigo, the purpose of the two documents is quite distinct. The Community Plan is the plan of Council and the Community, outlining specific goals and actions across all services that Council provides for the duration of the current Council term. Distinct from this, Plan Greater Bendigo is a long term strategic document identifying large scale infrastructure projects which often involve multiple agencies and stakeholders. These projects have the capacity to positively shape - or even completely transform - Greater Bendigo for generations.

12 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan Plan Greater Bendigo Governance and Implementation

A steering committee with representation from relevant government agencies chaired by the City of Greater Bendigo will be formed to coordinate the delivery and implementation of Plan Greater Bendigo. Working groups will be formed (where they are not already in existence) to progress the delivery of immediate projects and coordinate agency involvement. To further ensure accountability around the implementation of Plan Greater Bendigo, an annual report be put to Council outlining the actions completed in relation to the delivery of the projects within the document(s). This will include a summary of the findings and reporting on a series of indicators. These indicators will include

• Progress on each project • Project priorities relevant to population change • Unemployment rate • Gross Regional Product • Energy use and costs • Active and public transport use

Monitoring and review Summary Executive Plan Greater Bendigo will be reviewed every 3 years. This will ensure it is kept current and is updated to reflect any projects which have been delivered, as well as identifying any new high priority projects which may emerge.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 13 Context

Located 100 minutes north-west of Central Bendigo is a “city in a forest” with a strong education including La Trobe University, Monash and Melbourne, Greater Bendigo is the geographic heart relationship to the natural environment and Bendigo TAFE. of Victoria. It is Victoria’s third largest regional city connections through the various forest and creek The predominately self-contained workforce are and one of Australia’s 20 largest cities. trails. Greater Bendigo has 12 hectares of open space employed in a large variety of industries, creating a The City covers a large and diverse geographic per 1,000 residents, which is three times more than strong and diversified economy. The redevelopment area of around 3,000 square metres, from south of the most generous standard. of the Bendigo Hospital and St John of God Hospital Redesdale to north of Drummarton. Greater Bendigo has a strong café and restaurant is helping to stimulate the growth in health and allied Greater Bendigo is founded on the lands of the Dja culture, and is well known as an art and cultural health care which is expected to continue. Dja Wurrung and Taungurung peoples. Recognising destination. There are a number of annual events, Greater Bendigo is well-known as a hub for the and celebrating this Aboriginal Heritage is an ongoing including the highly regarded Easter Fair, Elmore Field broader Loddon Campaspe region, providing services and integral part to the planning and delivery of Days and the Heathcote Wine festival. and jobs to support a much wider catchment. Equally

Executive Summary projects. Greater Bendigo is well serviced by a variety of the many smaller cities, townships and rural areas There are a variety of reasons why Greater Bendigo education providers from the early years through to are an essential ingredient to the ongoing success of is growing in both resident and visitor numbers. For post-graduate education. These include government, Greater Bendigo, especially in terms of agriculture new residents Greater Bendigo provides a variety Catholic and independent schools, as well as tertiary production and tourism. of affordable options, with a median house price of $325,000. Residents have the option to live in an urban setting, within a small township or in a rural community all within around 45 minutes of the Bendigo City Centre. There are a number of attractions for both residents and visitors. The Bendigo Art Gallery is Australia’s premier regional art gallery. There are numerous visitor attractions along the High Street and Pall Mall corridor including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways, the soon to be constructed Aspire precinct, Rosalind Park and the Golden Dragon Museum/Bendigo Chinatown. This is framed by distinctive civic architecture from the 19th century gold rush, as well as the many intact heritage precincts which show the evolution of Greater Bendigo and the region. Other highlights include the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion and the many wineries across the region. Figure 5: New Years Eve in Hargreaves Mall

14 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan Figure 1 - Map of Bendigo and Loddon Campaspe Region in Victoria

Campaspe Loddon

Bendigo Central Goldfields Mount Alexander Executive Summary Executive Macedon Ranges

Melbourne

Figure10 6: Bendigo and Loddon Campaspe Region in Victoria Plan Greater Bendigo

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 15 Greater Bendigo has a growing and diverse economy, For example, if La Trobe University alone grew by only An adaptable with close to 5,000 jobs added over the last 10 years1. 5 per cent per annum for the next decade, this would boost Industries range from knowledge based sectors, to advanced student numbers by 3,000. A growth in student numbers is and innovative manufacturing, and regionally, intensive animal industries. Key supported by the $50 million investment La Trobe is making to the future economic success of Greater Bendigo will be the in their Flora Hill campus, combined with the construction of regional economy ability to proactively plan for future change and disruption. the State Government funded tech school on the site, and the As part of this planning, the Department of Education and recent significant investment in the revitalisation of Bendigo Training is working with industry and business partners, in TAFE. The delivery of short term hostel or dormitory style collaboration with the City of Greater Bendigo, to prepare accommodation in the city centre would drive educational Bendigo’s young people for the transitions brought about by tourism in the City as well as provide an affordable economic change. accommodation option for short term visitors. Ensuring a sufficient ongoing supply of commercial and The City benefits from a variety of educational providers and industrial land will be essential in supporting medium and institutions, from early childhood centres through to schools large business expansion and investment in Greater Bendigo. ranging from government and Catholic, to independent, which This will include delivery of supporting infrastructure and the are supported by organisations like the Science Discovery Marong Business Park at the recently rezoned 313 hectare centre. While the proportion of residents completing school piece of land in Marong. Improving connections to the west is growing, at 41 per cent this is still 18 per cent lower that of the City will be essential in supporting the significant the figure across Greater Melbourne. To help improve these population and commercial growth expected. This includes figures, the Department of Education and Training is currently the preparation of a business case to support the delivery of a working with a range of educational stakeholders to develop western and northern bypass to improve freight and transport a new ten-year education plan for the Bendigo region, with connections between Marong, Bendigo and the Calder the Bendigo Education Plan 2028. This plan will be designed Highway, including upgrading the Calder Alternative to four in consultation with the community and will ensure everyone lanes, and improving connections to the north of the Marong has access to high-quality educational services from early Township. childhood through to post-school skills and training. The City The second stage of the redevelopment of the Bendigo of Greater Bendigo is committed to working with all education Airport is complete, including the construction of a new providers to plan for and deliver facilities to meet the needs of runway, enabling aircraft carrying up to 70 passengers to land. a growing population. Attracting a large commercial operator to the Bendigo Airport The Victorian Government has committed to a range of would be transformative, facilitating investment and visitor significant Education State reforms from early childhood to growth across the region. This would be further supported by post-school skills and training, and is investing record funding development of an associated business precinct at the airport. into systems and resources so that every Victorian can access With over 11, 000 students at La Trobe, Bendigo TAFE and an excellent education. The Education State reforms provide a Monash University, Greater Bendigo is a knowledge city with unique opportunity for investment in Greater Bendigo’s early 16 significant potential forDraft growth. Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects childhood, school and training sectors. 1Economy ID, www.economyid.com.au Towards

A focus on early planning for economic change and disruption, and the growing Investment in higher education and student accommodation has led to a growing attractiveness of Greater Bendigo as a destination for tourism and residential growth, number of interstate and international students choosing to complete further study has meant the municipality has been resilient to economic change. Greater Bendigo’s in Greater Bendigo. La Trobe has continued to build on its success in a number of economy has continued to grow across a diverse range of sectors. We have attracted a programs including its success in STEAM education and is progressing towards 10, 000 number of medium and larger scale businesses which have established and expanded students. Monash University has continued to grow. There are a growing number of in Greater Bendigo, including in the Marong Business Park. Growth in the business park school students also taking advantage of the tech school at La Trobe. Bendigo TAFE has and the west of Bendigo has been aided by the delivery of supporting infrastructure, dramatically expanded following the completion of its health and community, and food ‘smart use of water’ and improved transport and freight connections. This includes the and fibre centres of excellence. Bendigo is now widely regarded as a university city. construction of a western and northern bypass and upgrade of the Calder Alternative New schools have been planned and delivered concurrently with population growth. between Ravenswood and Marong. The Victorian Government’s focus on lifelong learning, starting in the early years, has Commercial flights are now departing and arriving at Bendigo Airport, with regular led to a more inclusive and equal community. There are a growing number of students flights interstate and to second tier international cities. This has helped to stimulate a from across the region transitioning into TAFE and tertiary education, with the expanded complete transformation of the City leveraging investment and leading to a significant course offering meaning many students are choosing to stay in Greater Bendigo to increase in international and interstate visitors. complete this study. This has led to improvements in the skills and employability of residents.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 17 Marong Business Park - including supporting infrastructure and a freight and logistics facility

How does this project align with state and local policy Local Deliver supporting infrastructure and or other supporting documents? This project is identified within the Economic Development develop the Marong Business Park including State Strategy. investigation of a freight and logistics This project is identified in the Loddon Campaspe (Mallee facility, providing jobs commensurate with South) Regional Growth Plan. Who is responsible for delivery of this project? population growth. • City of Greater Bendigo supported by Transport for Victoria and Regional Development Victoria. Securing our industrial and business land needs Project at a glance Why is this project selected? Since 2002, the take-up of serviced industrial land has far Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of exceeded expectations. Greater Bendigo’s current supply delivery of industrial land is anticipated to be exhausted within the Minimal Short Complete the Bendigo Freight Study City of Greater Bendigo Medium next 10 years. and Transport for Victoria The delivery of the Marong Business Park will provide Moderate Short Preparation of a new Economic Development City of Greater Bendigo Medium much needed jobs as the population grows. Strategy Given the scale of the development, the Marong Business Moderate Short Preparation of business case for the facilitation City of Greater Bendigo Medium Park will also support a business case for the provision of of Stage 1A (40ha) of the Marong Business transport infrastructure to the west of the City. This will Park. include train stations at Marong and the Marong Business Moderate Short Preparation of a business case for the delivery VicRoads Medium Park, as well as a Western and Northern By-pass of the of a Western By-pass Marong Township. Moderate Medium Prepare a masterplan for the freight and City of Greater Bendigo High logistics facilities and Transport for Victoria How will this project help to transform the City? Unlike other similarly sized regional cities, Greater Bendigo Large Medium If supported by the business case undertake VicRoads High does not currently have a large scale industrial park. planning for the delivery of the Western By- This impacts on its ability to attract new big business pass investment and there are limited opportunities for Very High Medium Commence delivery of the Western By-pass VicRoads Very High industrial business expansion within the City. Large Medium Commence development of the Marong State Government, City High Even at the low end, at around 3,000, the number of Business Park and private organisation/s jobs anticipated through this project is about 8 per cent Moderate Medium Preparation of a business case for the delivery VicRoads Medium of the total employment currently provided in the City. of a Northern By-pass This shows the significance of this project for supporting Uncertain Medium Commence construction of freight and logistics City of Greater Bendigo High employment growth. -Long facility if feasible with private provider With around 13,000 extra people expected in Maiden Gully Large Long If supported by business case undertake VicRoads High and Marong alone over the next 20 years, this project will planning for the delivery of the Northern By- be vital in not only providing employment close to housing pass but also in supporting the business case for large scale Very High Long Commence delivery of the Northern Bypass for VicRoads Very High infrastructure investment in the west of the City. Bendigo (if supported by the business case)

18 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Bendigo Airport – Business Park and Terminal

more medium and larger businesses in particular to How does this project align with state and local Attract a large commercial airline operator locate to Greater Bendigo. policy or other supporting documents? to Bendigo supported by a redevelopment of the terminal building and the delivery of The ability to fly directly into the City would make State infrastructure at the Bendigo Airport Business it simple for interstate and international visitors to The Bendigo Airport Business Precinct is identified in Precinct. sample what Greater Bendigo and the region have to the 2016 Loddon Mallee Investment Prospectus. offer over a weekend or for a short stay. Local Why is this project selected? The business park will be an important aspect in Project has been identified in the Bendigo The delivery of both a Business Park and a terminal supporting the growth of the airport and will be Aerodrome Master Plan 2017-2020, and the adopted at the Bendigo Airport will become increasingly required to deliver important infrastructure to the Economic Development Strategy 2014-2020. important as both the City and region grow. Currently terminal. the nearest airport is Tullamarine Airport which is Who is responsible for delivery of this project? 90 minutes or 141 kilometres south of Bendigo. • City of Greater Bendigo with the support of Factoring in travel and boarding time, this can act Regional Development Victoria as a deterrent for businesses with staff that need to regularly travel interstate. This also makes it more difficult for interstate and international visitors to Project at a glance come to Greater Bendigo for a weekend or a short Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of stay. delivery There is approximately 12ha available for the Minimal Short Preparation of a business City of Greater Bendigo Easy business park to locate 45 lots for commercial prospectus with support of Regional development. The completed business precinct is Development Victoria likely to sustain 90 jobs. Large Short Work with providers to install City of Greater Bendigo Medium This project will also see the funding of infrastructure infrastructure to the precinct with support of Regional including power, telecommunications, water, Development Victoria sewer, gas, roads and drains. The provision of this infrastructure will also be important in order to Moderate Short Attract a commercial operator to City of Greater Bendigo High and business land needs our industrial Securing deliver the Airport Terminal building. the Airport with support of Regional Development Victoria How will this project help to transform the City? Moderate Short Rollout of an upgraded terminal City of Greater Bendigo Medium The ability for the Bendigo Airport to accept 737s building with support of Regional has the potential to completely transform the City. Development Victoria As the population of Melbourne grows, getting to Tullamarine Airport is likely to become increasingly Moderate Medium Attract suitable businesses to site City of Greater Bendigo High difficult , but this will not be an issue with the with support of Regional Bendigo Airport. The ease of travel will encourage Development Victoria

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 19 Revitalisation of Bendigo’s TAFE city campus

How does this project align with state and local Who is responsible for delivery of this project? Revitalise Bendigo TAFE into a modern policy or other supporting documents? • Bendigo supported by other vocational training facility that meets the needs of local industry to improve the State State Government Agencies and the City of employment prospect of residents from The Department of Education and Training 2016- Greater Bendigo. across the region. 2020 Strategic Plan, identifies the Government’s commitment to training and the TAFE system Securing our industrial and business land needs Why is this project selected? including access to targeted, relevant training for The refurbishment and redevelopment of Bendigo students in regional areas. TAFE’s city campus to improve amenity, functionality, Local activity and vibrancy will help to create a lively and A priority action within the adopted Economic attractive precinct that brings together education, Development Strategy (2014-2020) is to support the community and industry. development of Bendigo TAFE’s proposed centre of How will this project help to transform the City? excellence in health-related vocational training. Regardless of age, background or postcode, residents Project at a glance across the region should have the opportunity to learn for a brighter future. Bendigo TAFE provides Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of this opportunity, by providing access to high quality, delivery relevant vocational training facilities that will Moderate Short Preparation of a Masterplan Bendigo Kangan Institute Medium facilitate the needs of local industries and employers. for the revitalisation of the This refurbishment is essential to modernise the Bendigo TAFE city campus facilities and to better meet the education and High Medium Roll out of the Masterplan Bendigo Kangan Institute High training needs to residents and visitors to the city. for the revitalisation of the Given the strategic location of the site within the city Bendigo TAFE city campus centre, revitalising this site to attract more students has the potential to better activate the city centre.

20 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Short term hostel/student accommodation in the City Centre

spend a short time in Greater Bendigo to sample a University City and supporting the development of Deliver accommodation in the City Centre what the region has to offer. University student accommodation. to support educational tourism and a more affordable accommodation option for visitors. How does this project align with state and local Who is responsible for delivery of this project? policy or other supporting documents? • TBD Why is this project selected? State There is currently no short term student The International Education Sector Strategy identifies accommodation within the City Centre. Providing the importance of growing educational tourism. this accommodation will offer an affordable option Local for school students visiting the tech school at La Priority actions within the Economic Development Trobe, undertaking short courses at La Trobe and Strategy (2014-2020) include promoting Bendigo as Bendigo TAFE. It will also provide an affordable Project at a glance accommodation alternative for those visiting Bendigo and the region. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of delivery How will this project help to transform the City? This project would drive educational tourism in Moderate Short Prepare a feasibility study TBD Medium Bendigo from school students through to those for the delivery of short term undertaking TAFE and Tertiary Education. It would accommodation within the build on Greater Bendigo as a University City and City Centre and determine a would help in building the profile of the City both preferred site interstate and internationally. It is estimated that for Moderate Short- Attract investment for the Private investment Medium every four new international students, one new job is Medium delivery of the project (if created.2 supported by the business Currently a low number of the visitors to Greater case) Bendigo are from international destinations. By High Medium Deliver project (if supported Private investment Very high providing a more affordable accommodation by the business case) alternative this would encourage more visitors to

2International Education Sector Strategy, 2016, www.

business.vic.gov.au pathways training and employment education, to Supporting early access

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 21 Coordinated program of new school development to meet growing demand

Supporting early access to education, training and employment pathways This project will implement the Loddon Mallee Plan for a growing number of primary and Strategic Plan 2015-18 by improving educational secondary school students, setting aside land accessibility and attainment. for future schools Local This will support the implementation of many of Why is this project selected? Council’s adopted Structure Plans. Between 2011 and 2016, there was an increase of more than 1,000 primary school students and around Who is responsible for delivery of this project? 260 secondary school students. • The Department of Education, Catholic The large population growth expected in certain Education Department and other private areas is likely to make the provision of increased education providers supported by various State school places a significant issue in the future. For Government Agencies and the City. example across Maiden Gully and Marong, it could be expected there would be upwards of 1,000 more primary school aged students by 2036 and 700 more secondary students. Project at a glance This project will be closely related to the findings of the Bendigo Education Plan due for release in 2018. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of delivery How will this project help to transform the City? Minimal Short Preparation of the Bendigo State Government and the Medium We need to plan early and set aside land to ensure Education Plan City of Greater Bendigo there is space for future schools. This will reduce the future cost and the difficulty in consolidating Uncertain Ongoing Involvement in the planning State Government and the Medium – if land set land, and will ensure that schools are provided when process for new schools City of Greater Bendigo aside early in the needed. in growing areas including process setting aside land. How does this project align with state and local Minimal Ongoing Support the Catholic City of Greater Bendigo Medium policy or other supporting documents? Education Department and State non-Government schools The Department of Education is currently preparing on the identification and a new Education Plan for Bendigo. It is likely a draft delivery of new school sites of this Plan will be released in 2018. The Plan will be considered before finalising Plan Greater Bendigo.

22 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects This page is left intentionally blank Supporting early access to education, training and employment pathways training and employment education, to Supporting early access

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 23 The positive attributes and growth story of Greater Bendigo The delivery of a shuttle service between Castlemaine can mask the underlying social issues. These include a and Echuca would support employment, education and Healthy and widening inequality gap, marginalisation and poorer health regional connections. Train speeds between Bendigo and the outcomes for certain groups in certain areas, including in Melbourne city centre would be improved by upgrading the inclusive rural areas, and among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. track between Bendigo and Kyneton. Amongst those least able to afford housing, there are The redevelopment of the Bendigo Hospital precinct makes communities currently over 1,400 people on the public housing wait or it the largest in regional Victoria. This combined with the transfer list. The staged redevelopment of housing estates redevelopment of St John of God Hospital has contributed to over time, starting with Virginia Hill in Eaglehawk, provides a growing number of medical and allied health professionals opportunities to create more connected and welcoming relocating to the city in recent years. An opportunity exists environments, improving resident wellbeing. to leverage these significant investments to attract a health In spite of more train and bus services and improved cycle research institute to the precinct. A further opportunity for and pedestrian connections, close to three out of four innovation and to create much needed skilled jobs in a small residents are choosing to drive to work, a figure that has township exists in the delivery of the only dementia village in consistently grown over the last 20 years. This is contributing the southern hemisphere, at Heathcote. to an unhealthy community, with 53 per cent of adults The delivery of community hubs, in small townships and overweight or obese, and 52 per cent of adults not meeting disadvantaged areas, would provide a variety of services in daily physical activity guidelines. a single location and could include early learning facilities, The City is focused on building complete neighbourhoods youth hubs, libraries and employment support. within both urban and rural communities, enabling residents Close to two per cent of the Greater Bendigo population to access services and facilities without needing a car. With identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. growth comes the opportunity to better utilise existing There is growing awareness in the community and greater infrastructure, and to provide more housing in areas close to recognition of the traditional owners - the Dja Dja Wurrung services and transport. This includes better utilising vacant and Taungurung peoples - who are the rightful custodians. government land to provide a range of housing types and There is still work to be done in closing the gap in health businesses. and access to opportunities, and in ensuring all residents The potential to build a world class intra-city rail network by understand the history of Greater Bendigo and the the reinstatement of old, and rollout of new stations would importance of the traditional owners. set Greater Bendigo apart from other similarly sized regional The rollout of stage one of the new Bendigo District cities. This would also provide a great chance to link with the Aboriginal Co-operative community hub and centre has been significant opportunities presented through the preparation completed, providing a variety of health services to the local of a business case for a Melbourne CBD-Tullamarine rail link. community. Funding is currently being sought for the second As this state shaping project develops, there is opportunity stage of this project which will deliver a variety of broader to leverage benefits for Bendigo and the region. The City of services including a conference centre, education, and Greater Bendigo will champion the regional benefits that training facilities. would result from better connecting Bendigo and the region 24 to the TullamarineDraft Airport. Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Towards

The focus on infrastructure delivery to support A health research institute has been established in Bendigo, inclusive growth has led to a more equal community building on the success of the Bendigo Hospital, and there and improved wellbeing outcomes. As a result of are further expansion plans for both the Bendigo Hospital residents becoming more active from an early precinct and St John of God Hospital to support a growing age and a focus on preventative health, there population. The Heathcote Dementia Village has been has been a reduction in chronic disease in constructed, attracting a number of new skilled residents into the community. Heathcote, and supporting economic growth. The redevelopment of housing estates The community has a strong knowledge from an early and various public land sites has provided age about the importance of the Dja Dja Wurrung and more options for households to access Taungurung peoples in the history of Greater Bendigo. There affordable housing in well serviced are purpose-built facilities which support Aboriginal people locations, helping build complete to connect with their history and provide support resources communities. to ensure that this recognition is ongoing. This history is now Significant investment in active and embedded and integral to all that we do and considered in public transport (and local transport) the early stages of projects. As a result of the delivery of the including fully separated bike lanes and BDAC community hub and centre, there have been significant the reinstatement and construction improvements in the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal of a number of train stations, has people across the region. encouraged many residents to utilise A series of community hubs have been delivered in both active transport for their daily commute. small townships and disadvantaged areas, enabling residents There are now regular 20 minute peak to access a number of services in a single location, improving and 40 minute off peak services to all community connection and wellbeing. stations including Elmore. Services now The small townships and rural areas of Greater Bendigo also run frequently between Castlemaine and the region are thriving. The unique strengths of each and Echuca. Signalling improvements and community have been highlighted and promoted. This the upgrade of the track between Bendigo and includes improved connectivity, access to frequent and Kyneton has enabled faster trains to run regularly reliable public transport, more walking and cycling paths, between Bendigo and the Melbourne city centre. and world class broadband which has attracted increasing Bendigo is better connected to the Tullamarine Airport. numbers of new residents and visitors to these communities each year.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 25 Complexity of Complexity delivery High High High Delivery Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Transport for Victoria Victoria for Transport Who is responsible for delivery of this project? of this project? delivery for Who is responsible •

Delivery of the upgrade of the track of the track of the upgrade Delivery and Kyneton Bendigo between Task and design work detailed Undertake as required development business case and investigations site Undertake as required works preliminary Short Timing Short Ongoing

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Draft Plan Greater Uncertain Investment High High State State as identifies Plan Development Network Regional The between capacity track to increase direction a future on the tracks upgrade and to and Bendigo Kyneton line. Bendigo Local Bendigo: Greater the Connecting within An objective is to Use Strategy, and Land Transport Integrated connections public transport the regional strengthen capital regional as a Bendigo establish firmly to hub. transport a glance at Project How does this project align with state and local and local with state align project does this How documents? other supporting policy or faster speeds along the Bendigo line by line by speeds along the Bendigo faster Bendigo track between upgrading part of the and Kyneton. Enable more frequent train services and frequent more Enable

26 opportunities. How will this project help to transform the City? transform help to will this project How to supporting population will be critical This project the development drive as helping to as well growth, clusters employment of the various and expansion on private reliance will reduce It along the corridor. and education access employment to vehicles implementation of Bendigo Metro Rail, and the Rail, Metro of Bendigo implementation during the frequency of 20 minute implementation during off peak train frequency peak and 40- minute speeds of up train services. support faster It will also 160km/h. to this growth, there is currently only a single peak hour only a single is currently there this growth, each station service the Bendigo arriving at train morning. add additional servicesThe opportunity to along Bendigo between the track by the line is limited to the will be essential This project and Kyneton. Why is this project selected? is this project Why travelling are number of passengers A growing as and Melbourne, as well Bendigo between the along and centres towns accessing the smaller of In spite line, particularly in peak hour. Bendigo Upgrade the rail track between Bendigo and Kyneton and Bendigo between track the rail Upgrade Diverse, safe andcommunitie affordableinclusive and housingHealthy which isasignificant issueinsomesmall townships. connectedness andto supportyouth employment, public transport. Itwillhelpto improve social It willenableresidents to accessthesetowns via these townships. residents to live. Thiswillsupportthegrowth of smaller towns more attractive locations forsome Providing regular accessto publictransport willmake How willthisproject helpto transform theCity? and architecture intheregion’s smalltowns. make themost oftheuniquebusinesses,services residents from urbanBendigo to more easilyvisitand At thesametime,more transport options willallow connectedness. a car, improving healthandwellbeing andsocial communities to get around withouthaving to use There needto beoptions for residents inthese employment. cars facilities onadailybasis,to accessservices, and Currently themajorityofsmalltowns are reliant on Why isthisproject selected? Connectivity for small towns andneighbouring regional centres Improve public,local, andactivetransport based tourism market. within smalltownships. Thisincludesa support bothresidents anda growing nature regular bus service betweenregular busservice Heathcote and Elmore andwalkingcyclingpathsto Bendigo, morefrequent to trainservices Project at aglance State policy orothersupportingdocuments? How doesthisproject alignwithstate andlocal the LoddonMalleeRegional Strategic Plan2015-18. Improving smalltown liveability isidentified within services. local road maintenance andon-demandtransport betweenservices regional towns andcities, regional This includedproviding new andexpanded coach adequate transport connectivity inlow growth areas. Strategy identifies the importance ofmaintaining Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year Infrastructure Uncertain Minimal Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Investment Draft PlanGreater Bendigo –Projects Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Short Ongoing Ongoing Timing shared walking andcycling paths Investigate thepotential for new accessible encourage take up. promote to theuseoftheseservices becomeAs new services available, limited accessto publictransport for rural communities andthosewith Implement flexible local transport options to Bendigo from towns alongthecorridor bi-directional to ensure commuter access Ensure train frequency service targets are townships to Bendigo Increase accessto andfrom smaller fromservices Swan Hillto Bendigo) and Swan Hillrail lines(investigate shuttle Increase train alongtheEchuca services Task • Who isresponsible for delivery ofthis project? reduce reliance oncars. importance ofbetter levels ofpublictransport, to The Rural CommunitiesStrategy identified the Local Greater Bendigo Transport for Victoria supported by theCityof Bendigo City ofGreater Greater Bendigo. and theCityof Transport for Victoria Transport for Victoria Transport for Victoria Transport for Victoria Transport for Victoria Delivery Medium Easy Medium Medium Medium Medium delivery Complexity of

27 Diverse, safe andcommunities affordableinclusive and housingHealthy Complexity Complexity of delivery High High High High High Delivery Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Victoria for Transport Transport for Victoria supported by various State State various by supported Victoria for Transport Governments. and Local agencies Government Capacity improvements for passenger rail, including rail, passenger for Capacity improvements Hill and Swan Bendigo services between rail increasing in the Loddon included are and Echuca, and Bendigo Prospectus. 2016 Investment Mallee Region Report aspires Rail Recommendations Metro Bendigo services inter-peak peak and 40 minute 20 minute to and Kangaroo Eaglehawk Epsom, Bendigo, and from to Flat. Local Land Use Strategy and Transport The Integrated of a number of stations the reopening for advocates areas. in growth stations new and the building of of this project? delivery for Who is responsible • staged process staged within the identified out of other stations Roll Transport Integrated Bendigo: Connecting Greater process in a staged and Land Use Strategy Task services moving the number of passenger Increase off peak services peak and 40 minute 20 minute to of the reinstatement for a business case Prepare Stations and Golden Square Harcourt Bendigo of shuttle servicesbetween Introduction and Castlemaine in a stations out of remaining roll for Business cases Long Timing Ongoing Medium Medium Long Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Draft Plan Greater Very High Very Investment Uncertain Large Large Large Campaspe rail corridor. corridor. Campaspe rail Bendigo than depart arrive commuters more Currently the success of the Bendigo to Key each morning. Station of the frequency increasing will be Rail project Metro including Bendigo, Melbourne to services from train service services regional in the morning peak, to more city needs. and local align with state does this project How documents? policy or other supporting State a future as with and identified is consistent This project Development Regional Network within the direction Plan. a glance at Project The delivery of this project would support employment support employment would of this project The delivery to residents enabling by the region across growth the Loddon along clusters employment easily access Maiden Gully, Marong, Marong Business Park Park Marong, Marong Business Maiden Gully, and Huntly), increasing services to Epsom, Epsom, increasing services to and Huntly), Square, Harcourt, Kangaroo Flat South, Kangaroo Square, Harcourt, Eaglehawk, Elmore and Kangaroo Flat and a Elmore and Kangaroo Eaglehawk, reinstatement of others (including Golden of others reinstatement shuttle from Castlemaine to Echuca. Echuca. to shuttle from Castlemaine The rollout of new stations and the and stations of new The rollout

28

The implementation of this project would be one of of this project The implementation within Plan Greater projects transformative the most easily get more to enable residents It would Bendigo. and support a car, need for the city without the around the region. across growth employment increase in passenger services moving to 20 minute 20 minute services to in passenger moving increase off peak services. be This will peak and 40 minute of upgrade improvements, signalling by supported and shuttle Kyneton, and Bendigo between the tracks and Bendigo. Castlemaine services between the City? transform help to will this project How the creation of new stations at Kangaroo Flat South, Flat Kangaroo at stations of new the creation Business Park. Maiden Gully and the Marong Huntly, consider the should investigations term In the longer and Inglewood of Goornong,reopening Bridgewater Stations. Rail will be an Metro of Bendigo the success to Key and the opening of Epsom Station. Station. and the opening of Epsom arriving than departing commuters more now are There each morning. Station Bendigo out an inter-city roll the unique possibility to have We of the Golden the reinstatement through system rail and stations railway Marong and Harcourt Square, Why is this project selected? is this project Why from benefit to has been fortunate The region recent Rail in Metro in Bendigo investment significant services passenger which has included increased years, Bendigo metro rail - continuing implementation implementation - continuing rail metro Bendigo Diverse, safe andcommunitie affordableinclusive and housingHealthy Healthy and inclusive communitie inclusive and Healthy 3 help inaddressing someofthefundamental causes If delivered andtargeted effectively, this project will for Greater Bendigo. overlooked whenlookingat thepositive growth story generational disadvantage. Theseareas can often get others where many residents experience lifelong and that are highlyadvantaged, there are anumberof many individualsandareas inGreater Bendigo The Cityisasumofitspartsandwhilethere are How willthisproject helpto transform theCity? strive for amore inclusive community. supportlifelongindividual wellbeing, learningto would promote community connection, helpimprove employment supportandmeeting spaces.This youthcould hubs, includeearlylearning, libraries, andfacilitiesof services inasinglelocation. These centre inaneighbourhoodby providing anumber The delivery ofcommunity hubs would bethesocial libraries experiencing significant disadvantage. Heathcote, withthecommunities served by these include thelibraries inKangaroo Flat, Eaglehawk and currently delivered insubstandard buildings.These disadvantaged andrural communities, that are There are withintheCity, services particularlyin Why isthisproject selected? Community hubs Australia Bureau ofStatistics,www.abs.gov.au Bring together arangeofimportant townships. community inasinglelocation, services number ofurbanlocations aswellinsmall offering earlychildhood,youthandlibrary services. Createservices. thesecommunity hubs ina 3

Project at aglance lifelong thisislikely learning, to contribute to for greater socialconnection andbetter supporting of thisdisadvantage. By providing opportunities community facilities (9.3.3.)which could involve the potential to transform state schoolsinto Victoria’s 30year Infrastructure Strategy identifies State policy orothersupportingdocuments? How doesthisproject alignwithstate andlocal Greater Bendigo. stimulate greater economic growth andinnovation in communities, andmore broadly it would help to improvements inwellbeing indisadvantaged Uncertain Uncertain Large Moderate Minimal Minimal Investment Draft PlanGreater Bendigo –Projects Ongoing Ongoing Medium Medium Short- Short Short Timing process hubs aspartof thestructure planning Identify thepotential for community community hubs Investigation ofother sites for Rollout pilotproject ifviable Feasibility study/business case pilot project Determine aprioritylocation for a Strategy Finalise thepreparation ofa Youth Task • Who isresponsible for delivery ofthis project? plan. including to prepare anEarly Years infrastructure and develop additional Early Years Infrastructure Municipal Early Years ActionPlanis to support An objective withintheCityofGreater Bendigo enable peopleto work, connect, learnandcreate. need to provide welcoming andflexible spacesthat The GoldfieldsLibrary Corporation Planidentifies the Local family sharingfacilities services, andlibraries. integrating kindergartens, longday care andother City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo City ofGreater Bendigo Delivery Medium High Medium Medium High Medium delivery Complexity of 29

Diverse,Healthy safe and and inclusive affordable communitie housing Medium Medium Complexity of of Complexity delivery Medium Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation/ Clans Aboriginal Dja Dja Wurrung supported Pty Ltd Enterprises Dja Dja Wurrung organisations other various by Enterprises Pty Ltd Enterprises Aboriginal Dja Dja Wurrung Wurrung Dja Corporation/Dja and City of Pty Ltd Enterprises Bendigo Greater Aboriginal Dja Dja Wurrung Wurrung Dja Corporation/Dja Pty Ltd Enterprises Delivery Aboriginal Dja Dja Wurrung Wurrung Dja Corporation/Dja Who is responsible for delivery of this project? of this project? delivery for Who is responsible • Task site suitable Determine the for a Masterplan Prepare site of the Corporate Construction and Community Centre Timing Short Short Medium Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Draft Plan Greater Investment Moderate Moderate Moderate Project at a glance at Project This project would support the Aboriginal Affairs the Aboriginal Affairs support would This project the gap’. ‘closing around and Report Framework Local Dja Wurrung the Dja by is supported This project Plan 2014-2034. Country How does this project align with state and local and local with state align project does this How documents? other supporting policy or State Corporation (DDWCAC)/Dja Dja Wurrung Wurrung Dja (DDWCAC)/Dja Corporation Enterprises Pty Ltd (DDWE) Pty Ltd Enterprises Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Clans Aboriginal Dja Dja Wurrung

30 Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate and Community Centre Centre and Community Corporate Wurrung Dja Dja importance of the traditional owners in Greater in Greater owners of the traditional importance and the region. Bendigo How will this project help to transform the City? transform help to will this project How the for and Community Centre Corporate A new number of a greater enable would Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal residents support for services and more and jobs. programs more provide and potentially the recognising towards be a further step It would a contemporary, functional and flexible space functional and flexible a contemporary, their accommodate to DDWCAC allows that and needs and community commercial growing engagement, for increased opportunities provide Aboriginal of the local representation and celebration community. The Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation Clans Aboriginal Corporation The Dja Dja Wurrung Pty Enterprises Dja Wurrung (DDWCAC)/Dja their existing outgrown have (DDWE) Ltd accommodation. of the Dja Dja Wurrung The development deliver would and Community Centre Corporate Why is this project selected? is this project Why Diverse, safe andcommunitie affordableinclusive and housingHealthy Healthy and inclusive communities

This page is left intentionally blank Implementation Plan Implementation

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 31 The city centre is defined by its prominent civic about to commence a new revitalisation plan to help A stronger and heritage architecture, and is well known for its tourism in better activating the city centre, driving residential, offering including the Bendigo Art Gallery, Australia’s retail and office growth. This would be supported by more vibrant premier regional art gallery, and the Chinese Museum/ the redevelopment of the vacant land in and around Golden Dragon Museum. This is supported by the the Bendigo Train Station, creating a sense of arrival city centre thriving café and restaurant culture and a packed and acting as a key gateway to the city. calendar of events including the renowned Bendigo Ideally situated in Pall Mall, the Bendigo Law Courts Easter Festival. are now insufficiently sized and not safe for family law With close to 14,000 jobs, the Bendigo city centre matters. The potential redevelopment/relocation of has one of the highest concentrations of employment these law courts would create a significant and long- within the state. While this includes large organisations lasting boost to construction and associated industries such as Bendigo and Adelaide Bank – the only top 100 in the City, following the completion of the Bendigo company based in regional Australia - Bendigo Hospital Hospital precinct. and Council offices, the majority of businesses are small, employing less than five people. The delivery of a “gov hub” would support the relocation of various levels of government into a single building, fostering idea generation and collaboration. Currently less than one per cent of Greater Bendigo residents live within the city centre. Despite some recently constructed medium density developments, it currently lacks a strong, defined core. Council is

32 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Towards

The Bendigo CBD is well-recognised Closer to 10,000, or five per cent of as an employment hub and there is a residents, call the Bendigo city centre growing number of medium and large home. These residents live in a number businesses establishing professional of medium density developments and offices there. The attraction of State shop top housing, which have been and Federal Government agencies and designed to complement the existing the relocation of a number of other heritage architecture. government agencies into a single The growth in employment and “gov-hub” has further augmented the population, combined with an ever skill base within the CBD. It has also increasing number of interstate and helped in stimulating private sector international visitors attending the investment and associated business many events and tourist attractions, growth. (including the revitalised Chinese There are now substantially more Museum/Golden Dragon Museum) commuters arriving at Bendigo have contributed to a vibrant day and Station each morning. This has been night time economy. This includes complemented by the redevelopment strong retail and hospitality sectors of vacant land in and around the which have helped in better activating Bendigo Train Station, giving it a number of the City’s laneways. a European feel and creating an The redevelopment/relocation of impressive sense of arrival into the city the Bendigo Law Courts has led to a centre. Improvements in pedestrian flourishing justice precinct and the and cycling infrastructure mean there courts are now appropriate for family has been a substantial increase in the law matters. number of residents accessing the city centre by active transport.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 33 Bendigo Law Courts

Local Who is responsible for delivery of this project? Develop a new Bendigo Law Courts building Planning and advocacy for this project is identified in • Court Services Victoria supported by Regional to improve safety and to support a successful Council’s adopted Economic Development Strategy. Development Victoria, the City and Bendigo Law justice precinct An opportunity identified in the Rosalind Park Association. Why is this project selected? Masterplan is to better utilise land currently off-limits There are significant issues with the current Bendigo to the community, converting it and returning it to Courts Precinct, including that it is now undersized parkland. This includes the Bendigo Creek frontage

A stronger and more vibrant city centre and inappropriate for family law matters. behind the Law Courts and Post Office Building. How will this project help to transform the City? Not only would there be benefits to those using the Project at a glance Law Courts, but the large scale of the project would produce economic injection into the City. It will bring Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of more workers into the City Centre. There are likely delivery to be long-term benefits from the delivery of this Moderate Short Preparation of the business case for State Government and Easy project, including bringing more workers to the City the redevelopment of the Bendigo the City Centre. Law Courts funded in the 2017/18 If the Law Courts are moved to an alternative budget location within the City Centre, then this frees up at Moderate Short Preparation of a Masterplan for the State Government and Medium least part of the heritage building on Pall Mall to be current or an alternative site the City used for an alternative purpose. Significant Short- Commence implementation of the State Government and High How does this project align with state and local Medium Masterplan the City policy or other supporting documents? State This project was identified in Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year Strategy (2016). The Strategy highlights the need for delivery of new or refurbished courts and tribunals over the next 15 years. Court Services Victoria Strategic Asset Plan 2016-2031 indicates the need to prioritise the redevelopment of the Bendigo Law Courts.

34 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Bendigo Railway Station Activity Centre

How does this project align with state and local Who is responsible for delivery of this project? Better utilise the vacant land surrounding the policy or other supporting documents? • VicTrack supported by Transport for Victoria, City Bendigo Station, creating a mix of housing State of Greater Bendigo and Regional Development and commercial development that contribute to a thriving city centre Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 identifies the need to Victoria target regional railway stations and their surrounds Why is this project selected? for potential growth opportunities. The Bendigo Railway Station is a key gateway to Local the city centre. Currently it is underutilised and The vision within the Connecting Greater Bendigo: dominated by car parking. Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS), There is significant potential to redevelop the is for the Bendigo Railway Station to become a site to include a mix of housing and commercial vibrant Activity Centre. development. This will celebrate and make better Project at a glance use of the significant heritage buildings which occupy the site. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of This project includes undertaking planning to delivery relocate stabling and maintenance facilities to Minimal Short Preparation of a project scoping VicTrack Easy outside of the Bendigo Station precinct. This is report required to support contingent parcels of land in the precinct being made available for commercial and Moderate Short Commence preparation of a VicTrack supported by the High residential developments in the future. Masterplan for the site City of Greater Bendigo Moderate Short- Undertake Planning Scheme State Government Medium How will this project help to transform the City? Medium Amendment to rezone site supported by the City of With the railway station and surrounding land Greater Bendigo parcels occupying close to 12 hectares located Very high Medium Undertake planning to relocate Transport for Victoria High city centre vibrant and more A stronger within the City Centre, a redevelopment of this stabling and maintenance site could completely change this area over time. It facilities to outside of the would create a more vibrant City Core, bringing in Bendigo Station precinct more residents and growing employment and the economy. Significant Medium- Commence implementation of State Government and the Very High Long the Masterplan City A development of this site into a destination would have the further benefit of encouraging an increase in patronage on the train line to and from Bendigo.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 35 Bendigo “gov-hub” Office/Co-Location of Government Agencies

How does this project align with state and local Local The attraction of a large government agency policy or other supporting documents? A priority action within Council’s adopted Economic into the city centre will be complemented and supported by the relocation of various State Development Strategy (2014-2020) is to advocate agencies into a single building. The development of a business case for this facility for the efficient decentralisation of public sector has been funded through the 2017-18 State budget. employment from Melbourne and Canberra to Why is this project selected? Referenced in recommendation 60 (page 63) of the regional cities. A “gov-hub” for would help to foster a smarter city by Victorian State Government “Regional Economic Who is responsible for delivery of this project? A stronger and more vibrant city centre building on the extensive knowledge base of the staff Development and Services Review” Final Report July • Regional Development Victoria supported by a in multiple agencies within a single building. This 2015. could be used as a flagship program to attract skilled number of agencies and talented individuals to Bendigo and to grow the Project at a glance employment base within the city centre. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of Further, the co-location of services enables agencies delivery to establish a presence which is both more efficient in service delivery and reduces the cost burden on Moderate Short Preparation of a business case for the Regional Development Medium taxpayers. delivery of a “Gov Hub” Victoria Moderate Short Planning for the delivery of a “Gov Regional Development High How will this project help to transform the City? Hub” including detailed design and Victoria and City of In many ways the growth of Greater Bendigo is any Planning Scheme Amendments as Greater Bendigo reliant on attracting organisations and businesses to required both enable existing residents to further their careers without leaving the City and in order to attract new Moderate Ongoing Advocate to attract government Regional Development High skilled residents. agencies to relocate to Greater Victoria and City of Bendigo Greater Bendigo A “gov-hub” would enable the agglomeration of a number of skilled and knowledge based workers in Very high Medium Construction of a “Gov Hub” within the Various agencies High a single location. It will deliver long-term economic City diversification and growth in the region. Moderate Medium Relocation of various government Various agencies High By relocating a number of agencies into a single agencies to single location location, a number of well-located buildings would become available, enabling alternative uses, helping to generate further activity and revitalisation the city centre.

36 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Golden Dragon Museum/Bendigo Chinatown

How does this project align with state and local Local Redevelop the Golden Dragon Museum/ policy or other supporting documents? An action within the Community Plan 2017-2021 is to Bendigo Chinatown to emphasise and State advocate for improvements at the Chinese Precinct. encourage increased visitation to the An outcome by 2025 of the Victorian Visitor Economy In the Bendigo Region Destination Plan, 11 per cent museum. Strategy is that regional and rural Victoria will have a of respondents identified the Chinese Museum as more diverse product offering and be able to attract an attraction, with a further 17 per cent identifying Why is this project selected? visitors for longer stays. Chinese Heritage as a major theme associated with The region has a rich Chinese cultural heritage from This project would also support Plan Melbourne and the Bendigo Region. the gold rush of the 1850s. Infrastructure Victoria’s 30 year strategy by growing The Golden Dragon Museum is the largest museum jobs in regional Victoria. Who is responsible for delivery of this project? of Chinese and Cultural History in Australia and • Regional Development Victoria supported by the contains the largest collection of intact imperial Golden Dragon Museum, City of Greater Bendigo dragon regalia in the world, which includes the well- and Philanthropic Developers. recognised Sun Loong. The importance of this museum is currently not Project at a glance widely known. There are significant opportunities Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of to increase visitation to the museum through delivery redevelopment of the site and effective promotion. This would form a key part of the multi-cultural Moderate Short Complete a business case for Regional Development Medium tourism offering in Greater Bendigo. delivery of the project Victoria and the Golden Dragon Museum, City of How will this project help to transform the City? Greater Bendigo While there are currently 35,000 paying visitors Moderate Short Preparation of a Masterplan for Regional Development Medium each year, there is the potential to increase these

the site Victoria and the Golden city centre vibrant and more A stronger numbers substantially through this redevelopment. Dragon Museum, City of In particular, attracting interstate and international Greater Bendigo visitors who are more likely to stay for longer and take the time to experience all that Greater Bendigo High Short- Implementation of the Regional Development High has to offer. Medium Masterplan Victoria and the Golden Dragon Museum, City of Greater Bendigo

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 37 Our communities, like other communities around the world, are collection in September 2016, more than 12,000 A resourceful confronted by a number of challenges; climate change, depletion tonnes of waste has been diverted from landfill. of natural resources, loss of biodiversity, increasing costs, water Despite this, based on current rates and with the large amount and sustainable scarcity and developmental pressures. Rising groundwater is of commercial waste also being sent to landfill, the Eaglehawk another local challenge. These challenges are not only a threat to Landfill is likely to reach capacity by 2021. An alternative will region the health of the natural environment, they threaten the health need to be found and the City has the opportunity to come up of our community and the wealth and liveability of our region. with an innovative solution to meet the long term needs of a To move towards a more sustainable future, Council has growing and changing population. embraced the One Planet Living framework as part of the The temperate climate across Greater Bendigo and the region Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021, as well as the means it is well placed to harness renewable energy, including Community Plan 2017-2021. The Environment Strategy has bold wind and solar. Significant potential exists in delivering 20 year goals including zero carbon, 100% renewable energy and renewable energy on vacant land, particularly land not suitable zero waste to landfill. The One Planet platform allows the City to for urban uses, as well as in conjunction with the delivery of holistically consider the impact of various actions on the natural future business parks. This will offer a unique advantage and environment. It offers the opportunity for the City to become a make it more affordable for businesses to choose Greater leader in moving towards alternative energy technologies, and Bendigo as a destination. making more effective use of our limited natural resources. Use of existing mining tunnels for the generation, storage and Climate change has already led to both reduced average rainfall delivery of energy creates a unique opportunity for Greater and to more frequent intense rainfall events so becoming Bendigo, and if proven feasible could form a key part of Bendigo’s smarter in the way we use our existing water resources will future 100% renewable system. reduce the need to obtain increasing amounts of water from The cycling and walking trail along the Bendigo Creek is one of other regions. Coliban Water has a strong focus on Integrated Bendigo’s greatest recreational assets, as well as forming an Water Management and is investigating options for making important tourism connector that includes the Central Deborah the most of alternative water sources such as recycled and Goldmine, City Centre, through to Lake Weeroona. In spite of stormwater. Bendigo is also one of five Australian cities chosen this along some stretches it essentially remains a stormwater to be part of an integrated research project with the Cooperative receiving drain. The community have called for restoration, Research Centre in Water Sensitive Cities and one of two cities regeneration and improvements to the creek, which could chosen to research how to develop a full transition strategy and include the delivery of the “low line” corridor, potential for a implementation plan. regional wetland and an investigation into a recreational water The rising groundwater in Greater Bendigo is currently a problem park. However, this will require a large scale, coordinated and but investigations are underway into long term solutions that will strategic effort. turn this problem into a resource. Given the City’s adopted position around One Planet Living, there The current practice of sending large amounts of waste to landfill would be significant benefit in attracting a research institute is both expensive an unsustainable. In the past Greater Bendigo focused on better harnessing and utilising our natural resources, 38 has had one of the worst residentialDraft Plan wasteGreater diversion Bendigo rates– Projects in including water and energy. the state. However, since the introduction of the organics waste Towards

While climate change has led to a hotter and drier targeting new technologies and maximising our climate, the City has proactively prepared for natural resources, and this has also supported these changes. This includes reducing our growth in locally based undergraduate and post- per capita water use and using alternative graduate study options. water sources for non-potable purposes Both the community and local businesses have in all developments. There have been become much more cognisant of their waste investigations into the use of recycled generation. With recycling options for all waste potable water. Technology has helped streams this now means zero waste being sent to improve our resilience to localised landfill. A new waste management arrangement flooding. has been implemented which includes Greater Bendigo is not only carbon alternatives for disposal of commercial waste. neutral but now exports energy, More food scarcity now means that food is valued which has helped make it more more highly. Residents are educated from an early affordable for new residents and age on whole-of-food lifecycle and very little food grow employment in new areas. is wasted. Renewable energy has been Groundwater is no longer a problem but a delivered concurrently with the valuable source of water, with a long term construction of new business solution having been implemented. parks. A comparative reduction The City planned early for the widespread in energy costs has enabled introduction of electric vehicles and they are now existing businesses to expand and the norm, with many recharge points located encouraged more new businesses across the City. Private car ownership and use has to choose Bendigo as a destination, decreased in favour of shared vehicles and more providing a number of new employment active modes, including electric bikes. Various opportunities. improvements along the Bendigo Creek Corridor, Most households now have very low or mean it is now one of the most highly regarded zero energy bills and enjoy homes that are recreational and visitor destinations in the region. comfortable all year round. We have attracted an A number of residents now commute to work and international research institute based around travel around the City along the “low line ”.

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 39 Reimagining the Bendigo Creek

The restoration of this creek corridor will be Local Various improvements along the Bendigo transformative for a number of reasons ranging A shared vision for restoring the Bendigo Creek is Creek, including improving the health of the from flood mitigation to connecting places of a Flagship project within Council’s Environment corridor, implementing the Bendigo “low line” for walking and cycling, increasing native ecological significance. Implementation of the Strategy (2016-2021). vegetation, establishment of a regional Bendigo “low line”, will encourage walking and cycling, improve creek health, and increase Who is responsible for delivery of this project? wetland, and investigation of a recreational • This project would need to involve a large water park. biodiversity. number of agencies and stakeholders including

A resourceful and sustainable region Why is this project selected? How does this project align with state and local the City of Greater Bendigo, North Central The Bendigo Creek is currently one of the City’s policy or other supporting documents? Catchment Management Authority, Goulburn- most utilised recreational assets. However its State Murray Water, Department of Environment, current primary purpose is as a stormwater The Bendigo Creek is identified in the Water for Land, Water and Planning, Coliban Water and receiving drain. Undertaking a number of Victoria Plan under the Aboriginal Water program Dja Dja Wurrung. improvements to enhance the health of the and Dja Dja Wurrung Bendigo Creek capacity corridor, increase native vegetation and encourage building. greater use over time could potentially transform this important natural asset. Project at a glance This project would include the roll out of the Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of Bendigo “low line” walking and cycling corridor delivery which, once complete, would enable residents to Minimal Short Preparation of a shared vision State Government, City of Very high travel off road for their entire journey from Crusoe for the Bendigo Creek Greater Bendigo, Dja Dja Reservoir in the south to Epsom Primary School in Wurrung the north. Moderate Short- Prepare a creek management Stage Government, City of Very high This project would also include the investigation Medium and action plan Greater Bendigo, of a regional wetland at Huntly Streamside Uncertain Medium- Commence rollout of State Government, City of Very high reserve along the Creek Corridor, to provide a high Long management and action plan Greater Bendigo, Dja Dja quality natural asset for the community, and the Wurrung investigation of a recreational reserve along the Uncertain Medium- Investigate the establishment State Government, City of Very high corridor. Long of a regional wetland at Huntly Greater Bendigo, Dja Dja How will this project help to transform the City? Streamside Reserve Wurrung This is the most significant creek corridor in Uncertain Medium- Investigate the establishment State Government, City of Very high Bendigo, stretching 153km from Kangaroo Flat Long of a recreational reserve along Greater Bendigo, Dja Dja in the south to Mount Hope Creek north of the corridor Wurrung Lockington. 40 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects Better using our existing water resources

How does this project align with state and local water sensitive urban design; educating communities Make the most of our existing water resources by reducing our potable water use policy or other supporting documents? to save water and contributing to the successful and using groundwater to benefit the City. State management of groundwater. This project will deliver on priorities identified in Why is this project selected? Water for Victoria, the Victorian Government plan for Who is responsible for delivery of this project? Variable rainfall has always been part of the a future with less water. • Coliban Water, City of Greater Bendigo, North Central Catchment Management Authority landscape in central Victoria. In the future, Greater Local (NCCMA), the Department of Environment, Land, Bendigo is expected to be warmer and drier than it The Environment Strategy (2016-2021) identifies a Water and Planning (DELWP) with input from is today. This forecast, with a growing population, number of actions related to a sustainable water community, stakeholders and industry means we need to be smart in the use and future. These include securing water from a range conservation of our water resources. of sources to support a growing population; using Along with the opportunities to better utilise our potable water resources, managing groundwater Project at a glance is an ongoing issue for Bendigo and a permanent solution needs to be found. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of delivery The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning will continue to work with the community, Moderate Short Develop a preferred shortlist of long DELWP High stakeholders and industry to identify a shortlist of term options for the groundwater long-term options for detailed feasibility assessment. project This includes identification of technologies, Moderate Short Consultation on long term options for DELWP Medium governance and funding to capitalise on existing the groundwater project project investment and infrastructure. Significant Medium Implementation of the long term option TBD through Very high determining an How will this project help to transform the City? region and sustainable A resourceful This project provides an opportunity to improve the agreed governance liveability, resilience and sustainability of Bendigo. arrangement Both through Integrated Water Management and Uncertain Ongoing Implementation of Water Sensitive City of Greater Medium - in managing groundwater, Greater Bendigo has the Urban Design and Integrated Water Bendigo, Coliban High potential to be an innovation leader in better using management initiatives making better Water existing water sources. use of existing water resources Uncertain Ongoing Implementation of targeted behaviour Coliban Water Medium change initiatives to reduce water consumption

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 41 Plan for a renewable energy future

apart from other cities within Australia as well as Local Leverage investment in renewable and globally, as a leader in the development of this Council’s Environment Strategy establishes a target alternative energy generation, including technology. of zero net carbon in Greater Bendigo and 100 per completion of the business case into a cent of renewable energy generation from local and pumped hydro storage system. How does this project align with state and local regional energy sources over the next 20 years. policy or other supporting documents? State A goal within the Community Plan 2017-2021 is to work in partnership with other Councils Why is this project selected? The Renewable Energy Action Plan sets a Victorian towards achieving zero emissions. The City will

A resourceful and sustainable region Power prices are rising and impacting on our local renewable energy generation target of 25 per cent by show leadership and partner with the community business and manufacturing sector. Analysts indicate 2020 and 40 per cent by 2025. This requires 1500MW a major cause of rising power prices is a lack of of new large scale renewable energy capacity by 2020 to develop a transition pathway to 100 per cent investment in energy generation. and 5400MW by 2025. renewable energy. This project includes the pumped hydro storage Who is responsible for delivery of this project? system which is an exploration of mining tunnels • The City, cross-sectoral Energy Advisory Board for the generation, storage and delivery of energy. Project at a glance and private providers A business case has been funded in the 2017/18 financial year. Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity This project would directly implement the Greater of delivery Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021 by Moderate Short Complete feasibility study for pumped City of Greater Bendigo and Medium establishing Bendigo as a centre for Excellence for hydro storage Department of Environment, Renewable Energy. Land, Water and Planning How will this project help to transform the City? Moderate Short to Prepare a business case for a large City of Greater Bendigo and Medium Greater Bendigo’s relatively self-contained nature medium scale solar farm Energy Advisory Board and temperate climate enable it to be test case for High Medium If supported by the business City of Greater Bendigo and High the rollout of renewable and alternative energy to long case develop the site and solar Energy Advisory Board generation. specifications to undertake installation Bendigo has recently been recognised as a Uncertain Ongoing Delivery of renewable energy Private providers, City of High Community Power Hub requiring the establishment of concurrently with business parks Greater Bendigo a cross sectoral energy network and Energy Advisory Board. The City will work in close collaboration with Uncertain Ongoing Capitalise on opportunities for the Private providers, City of High this Advisory Board to promote this initiative and introduction of renewable and Greater Bendigo to attract related employment opportunities to the alternative energy technologies clean energy sector in Bendigo. Uncertain Ongoing Advocate to bring an international City of Greater Bendigo Very High The delivery of a pumped hydro storage system environmental research institute to provides a unique opportunity to set Greater Bendigo Greater Bendigo

42 Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects New waste management arrangements

only puts a small dint in the amount of waste being Local Deliver an innovative, long term waste sent to the Eaglehawk Landfill. An action of Council’s adopted Waste and Resource solution that meets the needs of a growing This project is about considering how we profoundly Management Strategy 2014-2019 is to support population, while implementing initiatives economic development opportunities which utilise that enable zero waste sent to landfill change our behaviour to reduce the amount of waste streams as a resource, as well as supporting within 20 years. waste going to landfill, while also finding a new way to manage waste. It is about us becoming a leading trials of innovative approaches or technology. Why is this project selected? example in our management of waste, ensuring A goal within the Community Plan 2017-2021 is The current practice of sending such a large amount that we are supporting a liveable city for future to implement the findings of the City of Greater of waste to landfill is expensive and unsustainable. generations. Bendigo 2017 Waste Review. *This refers to tonnes of recyclables and green organics In March 2014, Council made the decision that there Who is responsible for delivery of this project? collected (less contamination) divided by tonnes of should be no additional landfill sites constructed garbage, recyclables and green organics collected. • City of Greater Bendigo working with the once Eaglehawk Landfill had reached full capacity. private sector and supported by various state Should the Eaglehawk Landfill continue to accept How does this project align with state and local government agencies. waste at the current rate, it is likely to reach capacity policy or other supporting documents? by 2021. State This project would be two pronged. Firstly it would The Loddon Mallee Waste and Resource Recovery be focused on behaviour change and improving Implementation Plan. kerbside diversion rates, reducing the amount of household waste going to landfill. The second part Project at a glance would be finding an alternative for the large amount of commercial waste currently being sent to the Investment Timing Task Delivery Complexity of Eaglehawk Landfill. delivery

Minimal Short Preparation of a new waste strategy City of Greater Medium region and sustainable A resourceful How will this project help to transform the City? Bendigo Prior to the introduction of the Organics Collection, data released by Sustainability Victoria based Moderate Short A regional business case for the future City of Greater High on kerbside diversion rates in 2014-15 by local storage and management of waste Bendigo government indicated that Greater Bendigo’s Uncertain Short Implementation of the preferred waste City of Greater High diversion rate was 24* per cent, compared with 44 option for Greater Bendigo Bendigo per cent across the state. Moderate Ongoing Behaviour change to reduce the City of Greater High The introduction of the Organics Collections in amount of waste being sent to landfill Bendigo September 2016, has alone meant more than 12,000 tonnes has been diverted from landfill. However, this

Draft Plan Greater Bendigo – Projects 43 Action Plan Summary*

The following table provides a summary Project implementation of the implementation for each of the Short Medium Long Ongoing projects in Plan Greater Bendigo. At the An adaptable and innovative regional economy time of writing this document, while some of the projects have been funded Securing our industrial and business land needs in part, none are fully funded. Note the Marong Business Park including supporting infrastructure PD,PSI, BM BM, PSI, DL BM, PSI, DL IA delivery of projects is often predicated and a freight and logistics facility on a positive business case. Bendigo Airport – Business Park and Terminal BM, PSI, DL IA, DL IA Supporting early access to education, training and employment pathways *Dependent on funding Revitalisation of Bendigo’s TAFE city campus BM DL Short term student/hostel accommodation in the City Centre FS PD Policy development Coordinated program of new school development to meet PD PSI, DL PSI Planning/Site identification/ growing demand

Action Plan Investigation BM Business case/Masterplan Healthy and inclusive communities preparation Upgrade the rail track between Bendigo and Kyneton BM PSI DL IA Investment attraction Connectivity for small towns and neighbouring regional DL DL DL Delivery centres BC Behaviour change Bendigo metro rail - continuing implementation PSI BM BM DL FS Feasibility Study Community hubs PD BM, PSI, DL BM Dja Dja Wurrung corporate and community centre BM, PSI A strong and more vibrant city core Bendigo Law Courts BM, DL DL Bendigo Railway Station Activity Centre PSI, BM DL DL IA Bendigo “Gov Hub” – Office co-location of Government BM, DL DL agencies Golden Dragon Museum/Bendigo Chinatown BM DL A resourceful and sustainable region Reimagining the Bendigo Creek PD, PSI, DL DL BM Better use our existing water resources PSI, BM PSI, BM, IA, DL Plan for a renewable energy future FS, BM DL DL PSI, IA, DL New waste management arrangements PSI DL

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Draft Plan Greater Bendigo, Action Plan 45