General News
9 March, 2026
Economic development wins
The Hindmarsh Shire Council’s economic development strategy 2024-2028 is driving significant local growth, with key achievements presented at the February 4 council meeting.
In 2024, the council adopted a strategy that leverages current economic conditions to set methods and targets supporting residents, employment, socio-economic wellbeing, housing, and economic output.
An update at the meeting highlighted key activities and achievements of the economic development and tourism team over the past 18 months.
The team completed more than 400 business check-ins across the shire, supporting operators by sharing information and connecting them with relevant agencies.
Starting in 2026, quarterly business visits will be held in each of the four towns to strengthen relationships and assess training and support needs.
The team provided facilitation support to more than a dozen existing and 15 prospective businesses, resulting in 11 new business openings.
Three additional businesses are preparing to open, and one is seeking a buyer.
During the past year, business engagement initiatives included two business and tourism Forums, which attracted more than 60 attendees.
In 2025, the council provided post-bushfire grant support and advocacy, hosted the Small Business Victoria Business Bus, and promoted local operators through the Christmas Shop Local campaign, reaching the community via social media and local print.
The council is supporting new hospitality ventures, agricultural initiatives, local produce marketing, and placemaking projects.
A business-managed online directory will launch in early 2026.
The council allocated $20,000 to the Business Assistance Grants program in both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 budgets.
Across the past two rounds, almost $35,000 was awarded to support business sustainability.
The Regional Community Events Grants program received $30,000 in both years, with $17,500 distributed over the past two rounds.
A new round is now open for events planned in the next six months.
In 2025, several new attractions opened, including the Wimmera River Discovery Trail linking Dimboola and Jeparit, a new campsite at Arkona, the Rainbow Silo Development, and improved signage.
The completion of the Nhill Lake walking track created a new connection to the main street.
The council collaborated with Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism to deliver the Wimmera Mallee Touring Map.
Upgrades at the Nhill Caravan Park continued, with three new studio cabins scheduled to open in early 2026.
As part of the strategy, industrial land scoping is underway to identify suitable sites and opportunities for clustering compatible businesses.
The study also examined the feasibility of tradie hubs.
A draft report with initial feasibility findings will be presented to the council in early 2026 to support future advocacy and investment attraction.
The full report and update on the strategy are available on the council’s website at hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/council-meetings. See February 4, Item 10.5, pages 58-73.
For further information, contact the economic development and tourism team at (03) 5391 4444 or business@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.