Greater Geelong residents and organisations are invited to have their say on the Draft Plan for Nature, a 10‑year roadmap to protect, restore and manage the region’s natural environment through to 2030.

The Plan sets a clear direction for how the City, community and partners can work together to safeguard biodiversity across Greater Geelong. It was developed in collaboration with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, conservation groups, agency partners, environmental organisations, local experts and community members.

Join us for community drop‑in sessions on Thursday 16 April, 9.30–11.30 am and 3.00–5.00 pm at Wurrki Nyal, 137–149 Mercer Street, Geelong, to chat with City officers and share your feedback.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said the Plan aligns with Council’s long‑term commitments to nature outlined in Council Plan 2025-29 and the Environment Strategy 2020-30. 

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

The Plan for Nature gives us a coordinated, long‑term approach to effectively care for our environment, and we want the community to help shape it.

Greater Geelong is home to diverse wildlife and ecosystems, including endangered native grasses and wetlands that need careful protection. This provides the framework we need to make sure these natural assets are preserved for future generations.

The Plan is informed by an analysis of the current state of Greater Geelong’s nature, which highlights the scale of the challenge. More than 90 per cent of the region’s ecological vegetation classes are rare, vulnerable or endangered and at least 24 federally listed threatened species and ecological communities rely on habitat on City‑managed land.

Environment and Circular Economy portfolio chair Cr Elise Wilkinson

Our natural areas are under pressure, but we also have enormous opportunities.

This plan sets out clear goals for protection, restoration, partnerships and climate resilience. Community input is essential, because caring for nature is something we all share responsibility for.

The Draft Plan outlines five key goals:

1. Wadawurrung Country and Values
2. Protections
3. Connections and Restoration
4. Community and Partnerships
5. Climate Change and Supporting Nature

Each goal includes 10‑year strategic objectives, targets and short‑term actions.

Community consultation is open until Thursday 30 April 2026. The final plan is expected to return to Council for adoption in June 2026.

View the Draft Plan for Nature and complete the survey on the City’s website:  yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/planfornature