Community voices highlight growing pressure on essential services in Greater Shepparton

Midway through Council’s community led advocacy campaign, consistent themes are emerging across Greater Shepparton - limited public transport options, concerns about road safety, access to hospital services locally, and an ageing and inadequate sports stadium.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the campaign has confirmed what many locals already know.

“What we’re hearing again and again is that these issues are affecting everyday life - getting to work safely, accessing healthcare, moving around our city and participating in sport and community activities,” he said.

“These projects are essential services that shape safety, access and opportunity for our community.”

Cr Sali said the voices coming through the campaign reflect a city that is growing and contributing but increasingly constrained by infrastructure that hasn’t kept pace.

“Greater Shepparton is a major service centre for the region, and when essential services fall behind, the impacts are felt by families, businesses and community groups across our municipality,” he said.

The advocacy campaign continues to focus on four priority areas where impacts are most visible and widely felt: roads, hospital services, the bus network and stadium infrastructure.

Cr Sali said Council would continue amplifying community voices in the lead up to the State Budget.

“Our community has been clear, constructive and consistent. We will keep advocating for fair and timely investment so essential services keep pace with growth,” he said.

Find out more about the Greater Shepparton Victorian Government Priorities 2025/26.