Council is developing a new long-term land use strategy, Warrnambool Futures, which will guide sustainable and balanced growth throughout the municipality over the coming decades. The municipality is expected to gain a further 2,700 homes over the next two decades, while the city's population is on track to reach approximately 41,000 residents.
Warrnambool Futures will not just examine housing. It will also explore the land use needs for a growing economy, transportation and moving around Warrnambool, infrastructure from utilities to community buildings and spaces, and the natural assets, hazards and resources of the area.
Phase one of the community engagement for this project was undertaken between March and April 2025, to ensure Warrnambool Futures understands the community’s future vision of Warrnambool and their needs, desires and knowledge in regards to housing, business, transport and community spaces.
An online project page was developed to provide an opportunity for community members to engage with the project. It contained information about the project, including the State of Warrnambool Report, an online survey, and an invitation to join one of two community workshops where participants could learn more about the project and provide their input.
142 people completed the online survey and 17 people attended the community workshops. Four submissions were also received.
Demographics were collected in the survey and the results indicate a good mix of age groups participating. As expected, most respondents reside in Warrnambool, but 12% came from the surrounding small towns in the municipality or from the surrounding Moyne Shire.
The key findings across Housing, Economy, Natural Features and Hazards, Transportation, and Infrastructure are summarized in the Engagement Report.
Overall, the community have indicated a love for Warrnambool and a desire for its current coastal, country town feel to be preserved and the ability to be progressive and welcoming highly supported. There is support for the new growth that is to come, with a desire for a variety of housing options in a number of existing locations. Preservation of rural and farming land is well supported. Transportation and green spaces are the highest priority for infrastructure needs.
Your comments can be provided via email at [email protected]
Please include ‘Warrnambool Futures Engagement Report’ in the subject line of your email.