Victorian Government backs manufacturing hub in Benalla

The Victorian Government has announced funding for the planning of an advanced manufacturing, logistics and sustainable industries hub in Benalla.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced a $240,000 grant from the Community Development Fund to help Benalla Rural City Council progress the Benalla Future Economy Employment Precinct.

The Future of Benalla and District Local Development Strategy (LDS) identified advanced manufacturing as a key industry sector that will support long-term economic growth in the region. The funding aims to kickstart planning for the precinct, including an infrastructure needs analysis, and a conceptual masterplan and precinct design.

An infrastructure analysis study identifies gaps in the current industrial area and provides recommendations for key upgrades to support the future growth of the precinct on Yarrawonga Road.

A masterplan and precinct design will shape the future of the Yarrawonga Road site, demonstrating how to activate current and emerging industries, with input from stakeholders. A transport strategy will also be developed to ensure safe, efficient and sustainable infrastructure across the municipality as the precinct grows.

The precinct is expected to attract high-value industries and deliver long-term benefits to the local and national economy through job creation, infrastructure improvements and increased industrial output.

Benalla Rural City Council has also received $500,000 from the Community Development Fund to support the implementation of the LDS and deliver community capacity building activities.

Benalla is one of 11 Victorian towns and communities receiving support to transition and implement new strategies in their local economy supported by the Government’s Forestry Transition Program Community Development Fund.

“We’re supporting Benalla to build a resilient future through economic diversification and a shift toward sustainable industries,” Spence said.

“This investment aligns with our community’s vision, as outlined in the Future of Benalla and District Local Development Strategy, and will pave the way for long-term economic growth, job creation, and innovation in our region,” said Benalla Rural City Council Mayor Bernie Hearn.

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