Council adopts Annual Report 2025-2026

Published on 28 October 2026

Harcourt Leisure Centre volunteers March 2026

Mount Alexander Shire Council formally adopted the Annual Report 2025-2026 at the Meeting of Council on 27 October 2026.

The report outlines Council’s performance, achievements and financial results over the past financial year, and reports on progress against the priorities set out in the Council Plan 2025-2029.

The report is structured around Council’s five focus areas:

  • Communities
  • Natural Environments
  • Infrastructure
  • Wellbeing Economies
  • Organisation

It also includes a year in review section, community case studies, service performance indicators, governance information and Council’s audited financial statements.

Mayor Toby Heydon said the report reflects a year of significant achievement, investment and resilience for the Mount Alexander community.

"This report highlights the many ways Council has worked with our community to support recovery, improve local infrastructure, strengthen our economy and plan for the future," Mayor Heydon said.

"The January bushfires had a profound impact on many residents, businesses and communities. The year also demonstrated the strength, generosity and resilience that exists across our shire."

"We made important progress on key priorities, including affordable housing, climate action, community infrastructure, accessibility and economic development, while continuing to deliver more than 100 services for our community."

"The Annual Report is a reflection of the dedication of our staff, community volunteers, partner organisations and fellow Councillors. I thank everyone who contributed to these achievements and helped make Mount Alexander such a vibrant and connected place to live."

Highlights from the 2025-2026 financial year included:

  • Supporting relief and recovery efforts following the January bushfires, including establishing recovery hubs and a dedicated Bushfire Recovery Team.
  • Appointing a Trustee to establish the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust and securing land for its first housing project in Maldon.
  • Achieving net-zero emissions across Council operations.
  • Commencing major works on the Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane Streetscape Redevelopment in Castlemaine.
  • Establishing the Mount Alexander Food Relief Network.
  • Adopting Council's inaugural Youth Plan 2025-2029.
  • Launching a successful soft plastics and textile recycling trial that diverted 30 tonnes of material from landfill.
  • Achieving My Aged Care Veterans and LGBTIQA+ specialisations.

Council also invested $13.2 million in capital works during the year, including roads, bridges, drainage, recreation facilities and community infrastructure.

The Annual Report 2025-2026 is available online at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/AnnualReport.

A hard copy is available to view at the Castlemaine Civic Centre.

Image: Harcourt Leisure Centre volunteers

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