The strategy sets out actions and initiatives to guide the evolution of Mount Alexander’s industrial lands and sector with the aim of supporting the economic well being, creativity and sustainability of our community as we respond to the challenges of the 21st century.

The Industrial Design Guidelines will provide a framework to guide and evaluate applications for subdivisions and development.

The guidelines ensure that environmental, amenity and aesthetic matters are addressed and integrated with the practical requirements of industrial use and development.

We’re concerned about the lack of well-located industrial land in the shire, and the challenges the industrial sector faces as a consequence.

The strategy will provide a plan for supply of industrial land in to the future, and provide guidelines for development on industrial land so that our local community benefits.

We have industrial areas in Castlemaine, Chewton and McKenzie Hill.

These areas support businesses in sectors such as manufacturing, processing and trade enterprises, as well as a growing number of new and innovative enterprises such as artisans, fabricators, food and wine producers, and clothing suppliers.

Businesses in industrial areas are important for a range of reasons:

• Employment.
• Production of essential goods and services, including those associated with shelter, food, energy, transport and water.
• Businesses can experiment and innovate with minimal impact on residents. The Mill is a good example of this, it has expanded to include a wide variety of businesses, some award-winning.
• Able to support a more sustainable and innovative economy. For example, industrial settings are the ideal location to introduce new distributed energy systems and circular economy initiatives.

Yes, we are actively seeking feedback from businesses and the community during three key phases:

• Development of draft Discussion Paper (June 2024) - Completed
• Draft Discussion Paper (November - December 2024) - Completed
• Draft strategy and urban design guidelines (August - September 2025) - Underway

Who else is involved?