Council calls for clarity on financial implications of Treaty

Published on 31 August 2026

Loddon Shire Council is calling on the Victorian Government to provide clear, comprehensive and timely advice in relation to from the Treaty process.

Council will submit a motion to October’s State Council Meeting of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) seeking clarity around the potential financial, resourcing, statutory and operational implications arising from statewide or local treaties, request that the government commit to fully fund all new responsibilities required of councils under the framework and advocating for the formal inclusion of local government in Treaty implementation planning.

Loddon Shire Mayor Dan Straub said Council’s motion did not seek to oppose or support the Treaty process, but rather it wanted the government to clearly communicate any potential impacts to councils.

“Local government doesn’t have a seat at the table as part of negotiations for either the statewide or local treaties so it is very difficult for councils to plan, budget or commit resources for any new obligations that we might have,” Cr Straub said.

“We don’t know whether there will be new statutory obligations, consultation processes, cultural heritage requirements or land-related matters, all of which may require us to commit significant resources.

“It makes it difficult for us and our communities to understand and plan for any possible outcomes which, in the absence of any clarity from the government or the Treaty Authority, makes it hard for us to take a constructive, informed and well-planned approach to meet any requirements.

“On top of that we and other councils face ongoing financial sustainability challenges so it is vital we have all the information we need to help our long-term financial planning.”

The MAV State Council Meeting is scheduled to take place on Friday, 23 October.