Bendigo Council approves new community transport and water management initiatives affecting local residents

The Bendigo City Council finalised a set of policies on July 10, including expanded funding for community transport services targeting elderly residents and updated local water allocation rules affecting agricultural users across the region.

These policy changes come as local elected officials respond to shifts in population demographics and state-level water management reforms. Bendigo has seen steady population growth over the past decade, with the proportion of residents aged over 65 increasing, according to the 2021 Australian Bureau of Statistics data. Meanwhile, regional farmers face tighter water access due to Murray-Darling Basin Plan adjustments implemented by Victoria's Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning earlier this year.

Improved transport options for seniors

The approved 2026-27 budget allocates $1.2 million to community transport services, projected to increase availability of on-demand shuttles and bus routes for senior citizens in suburbs such as Kangaroo Flat and Eaglehawk. Council documents indicate the new services aim to reduce isolation and improve access to medical appointments and social activities for older residents without private transport.

Policy analysts note Bendigo's seniors currently represent 18% of the population, higher than the Victorian average. Expanded transport subsidies will target those over 70 on limited incomes, with eligibility criteria to be released later this month. This move follows feedback collected during 2025 public consultations on social inclusion.

Water management policies bring mixed effects for local farmers

The council also endorsed revised local water allocation guidelines aligning with state mandates designed to balance urban supply with agricultural needs. Under the new rules, irrigators in the Greater Bendigo area may face a 10% reduction in seasonal water allocations, especially during low-inflow years forecasted for 2026-27 by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Farmers growing stone fruit and vegetables-a key part of Bendigo’s regional economy-will need to adjust irrigation practices accordingly. However, conservation groups have welcomed the policy for supporting the health of the Campaspe River system, which supplies much of the local water. Council briefing papers show projected savings of approximately 1,200 megalitres annually if farmers comply fully with the guidelines.

Local agriculture advocates note that while short-term adjustments may cause crop yield variations, longer-term sustainability of water resources is crucial for the sector’s stability. Council will monitor impacts through annual reporting requirements set to begin in 2027.

Further details on both transport eligibility and water management implementation plans will be discussed at the council’s community forum scheduled for August 15. Residents can submit questions or concerns via the council’s official website through the end of July.