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Cover photo: The Catchment to Coast exhibition is on display at the Cardinia Cultural Centre until 31 August 2026.
Mayor's message
I know many households across Cardinia Shire are continuing to feel the impact of the cost of living, and managing household budgets can be a challenge for many families. That's why it's important that Council continues to deliver value for our community, while investing in the services and infrastructure our growing shire needs.
This month, rate notices for the 2026-27 financial year are being delivered to property owners across the shire. Rates help fund the everyday services and facilities that support our community, from local roads, parks and playgrounds to waste collection, libraries and community centres. Council has also introduced a new FlexiPay option to provide greater flexibility for residents managing their rates payments.
As our population continues to grow, so too does the need for investment in community infrastructure. With the State election approaching, Council is advocating for projects that will make a real difference to local families, including the redevelopment of Cardinia Life and improving unsealed roads.
Thank you to everyone who continues to contribute to making Cardinia Shire such a vibrant, connected and supportive community. I encourage you to read more about these important updates and the work being done to help shape our future.
To catch quick highlights from our recent Council Meeting, you can watch our wrap-up video, or visit our website to view the full meeting and read the minutes.
Warm regards,
Cr Brett Owen
Mayor
Latest news
Rates help fund more than 120 services and facilities that support our growing community every day, from roads, footpaths and drainage to parks, playgrounds, libraries, waste services, maternal and child health programs, and community centres.
Did you know that Cardinia Shire has one the largest unsealed road networks in Victoria, spanning more than 800km - roughly the distance from Melbourne to Sydney?
We need further support from all levels of government to make significant progress towards improving our unsealed road network.
Ahead of the upcoming State election, we're calling for funding for priority road sealing projects to improve safety, strengthen emergency access and enhance liveability across the shire.
Council is formally objecting to a proposed Battery Energy Storage System in Bunyip North and is urging the Victorian Government to introduce a clear statewide framework for future battery storage developments. We're advocating for a balanced approach that supports renewable energy while protecting agricultural land, green wedge values and local communities.
Community donates 223 phones to support people in need.
A simple donation can make a life-changing difference. Thanks to the generosity of Cardinia Shire residents, 223 mobile phones have been collected through the DV Safe Phone initiative to help people experiencing domestic violence stay connected, access support and improve their safety.
For the latest Council news, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/news
What's on
Water you waiting for? Catchment to Coast is now open!
Now showing at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, our free exhibition deep dives into the waterways that connect our region, from the hills and creeks of Cardinia Shire to the shores of Western Port Bay.
Connect through culture
Connection and Culture for Mob is a welcoming monthly space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and kin to come together, share a meal, have a yarn and take part in cultural activities.
Each session offers opportunities to connect with community, meet others and enjoy activities for people of all ages.
Got weeds in your garden? Let’s swap them for something better!
Turn garden weeds into something positive by swapping them for free local native plants at the Trees for Weeds event in Emerald.
Get fire ready with our upcoming workshops
Develop a practical understanding on how to prepare your property ahead of the bushfire season with a workshop this September. The workshop is aimed at properties with a bushfire risk between 1 and 10 hectares. Bookings required.
Did you know you can promote your not-for-profit or low-cost community event on Council’s website? Events or activities must be held in Cardinia Shire and be open and relevant to the broader community.
Head to our events page for submission guidelines and to submit your event.
Pakenham Revitalisation: town centre upgrades continue
Stage 1 Main Street Gateway is nearing completion, with final concreting, landscaping, electrical works and lighting activation expected to be completed by mid-September 2026.
Stage 2 works are progressing in Drake Place, with upgrades to the eastern car park nearing completion. From 7 September, the eastern car park is expected to be reopened and works will commence on the road along Drake Place. Find out more about upcoming traffic changes and available parking around the town centre, so you can continue to visit and support local businesses, while these important works are underway.
Bessie Creek Rd complete
We’ve sealed the entire 5.3km length of Bessie Creek Road, creating a safer, smoother and more reliable connection for the Nar Nar Goon North community. Alongside the road upgrade, we're continuing to invest in environmental initiatives that protect native wildlife, including thermal drone monitoring, habitat enhancement works and conservation programs focused on local glider populations.
The new Upper Beaconsfield Pavilion is taking shape
Exciting progress is being made at the Upper Beaconsfield Reserve Pavilion, with internal fit-out works now underway in the new modular building. Improvements to the access road and car park are also advancing, bringing the upgraded community facility another step closer to completion.
To see what projects we're delivering, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/majorprojects
Get involved!
Help tackle kerbside contamination
Recent bin audits have shown that bagged waste and mixed waste are still being placed in kerbside recycling bins, when they belong in the red lidded landfill bin.
By sharing your experiences, you'll help Council better understand the barriers people face and ensure our education programs and resources are practical, relevant and effective.
Join our Multicultural Advisory Group!
We have a fantastic opportunity to join a group that strengthens cultural connections, celebrates diversity and helps shape a more inclusive Cardinia Shire. We're seeking expressions of interest from community members passionate about representing and supporting our culturally diverse communities through the Multicultural Advisory Group.
Reviewing our Green Wedge Management Plans
We're preparing two Green Wedge Management Plans to help protect our rural landscapes and guide future land use.
We have a number of community information sessions coming up around the shire. Come along to find out more about the future consultation.
FREE waste incursions for Cardinia Shire Council kindergartens and schools
Free waste and recycling incursions are now available for Cardinia Shire kindergartens and government schools. Help inspire the next generation to reduce waste, recycle right and care for the environment.
Share your feedback and help shape our shire: cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
Contact your Councillor
Cardinia Shire has nine Councillors who represent nine wards. Learn more about your local councillor or access their contact details on Council's website.
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Questions? Feedback?
We'd love to hear from you! Send an email to mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au,
call 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au
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