Growth surge opportunity for Greater Shepparton region

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the surge highlights the growing appeal of Victoria’s regional cities but also exposes the urgent need for infrastructure investment to support growth.

“Greater Shepparton is growing faster than almost anywhere else in the country. People are choosing to live here and that’s something we should be proud of,” he said.

The latest Regional Movers Index shows regional Victoria attracted 23 per cent of all capital-to-region movers nationally, second only to New South Wales. While national mobility has slowed, inflows to Victoria’s regions remain 17 per cent above pre-pandemic levels, confirming a long-term shift in where Australians are choosing to live.

“But growth like this needs support. We can’t keep welcoming new residents without the roads, health services and enabling infrastructure,” Cr Sali said.

"In 2023, the State Government cut dedicated funding streams for regional growth, scrapping the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund despite strong momentum across Victoria’s regional cities."

“We’ve lost key funding that helped us build the infrastructure we need. We are calling on the State Government to urgently restore and expand funding for regional infrastructure to ensure Greater Shepparton remains competitive and liveable,” Cr Sali said.

“Greater Shepparton is urging the Victorian State Government to invest in critical infrastructure and services to support its rapid growth.”

Top priorities include transport upgrades, improved public transport, and expanded health facilities such as the GV Health redevelopment and cancer care services. To ensure long-term sustainability, the region is also seeking support for advanced manufacturing and an enabling infrastructure fund to drive jobs and economic development.

“These investments are vital to keeping Greater Shepparton liveable, connected, and competitive,” Cr Sali said.

“While the 2026 State Budget is several months away, now is the time for Council to be on the front foot in regards to advocacy. It’s not about what’s fair for our region, it’s about what is right.”

Find out more about Greater Shepparton City Council’s Victorian Government Priorities 2025/26