Following extensive community engagement and consultation, Rural City of Wangaratta Council has officially endorsed its new Community Vision 2045.

The vision captures the hopes and aspirations of the community and sets the strategic direction for the next 20 years, as required by the Local Government Act 2020.

It was shaped by feedback from more than 2000 community members through surveys, workshops, pop-up events, and targeted engagement activities held between November 2024 and May 2025.

The headline, 'The Rural City of Wangaratta is a place for everyone', was selected following specific community engagement in April and May.

The vision highlights the importance of inclusivity, urban-rural balance, and the natural environment as central to Wangaratta’s identity.

Mayor Irene Grant said the new community vision was a reflection of the hopes, priorities, and values shared by our residents.

"It’s the result of community input and collaboration, and I’m pleased with the collective effort that brought it to life," Cr Grant said.

"I believe it will guide us toward a future where everyone feels they belong.”

The Community Vision 2045 will inform council’s planning documents, including the Council Plan 2025–2029, the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, and the 10-Year Financial Plan.

The Community Vision 2045 document is brought to life through artwork by King Valley artist Anita Laurence, a participant in the Council Plan workshops.

Her linocut print, Under a Blue Sky (2017), is part of the Wangaratta Art Gallery Collection and features prominently in the vision’s promotional materials.

For more information download the full Community Vision 2045 document at: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Our-Community-Vision.