Council Refocuses Climate Action on Tangible Local Outcomes

Published on 24 April 2025

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has voted to refocus its climate efforts on projects that deliver real, measurable benefits to the local community, strengthening its commitment to climate resilience while ensuring greater transparency, accountability and value for ratepayers.

The decision, made at Tuesday night’s Council Meeting, concludes the Climate Emergency Declaration and associated Climate Emergency Plan (CEP), and replaces them with a renewed focus on practical, community-focused climate initiatives that align with Council’s core responsibilities.

Under the new framework, all future climate-related proposals will be subject to individual Council reports or itemised budget bids, with clear measures of effectiveness. Each project must also consider emissions and provide comparison data for alternative options, supporting more informed decision-making.

The decision also allows Council to place greater focus on the priorities raised consistently by the community, including coastal protection, stormwater management and the maintenance of public assets, while continuing to meet its obligations under the Local Government Act 2020, Climate Change Act 2017 and Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008.

Quotes attributable to Mayor, Cr Anthony Marsh

“This decision reflects a more outcomes-based approach to climate action.

“This is not about stepping away from climate responsibility. It is about stepping forward with a clearer focus.

“We want to deliver results that people can see and benefit from. That means investing in better drainage, protecting our coastline from erosion, supporting sustainable infrastructure, and making sure every climate-related initiative is practical, measurable and linked to community priorities.

“We know our residents value real, meaningful local action. This approach ensures we continue to invest in climate resilience in a way that is effective, responsible and aligned with our broader commitments.

“Every Councillor takes their responsibility to the community seriously. This decision strengthens our approach by ensuring all future proposals are transparent, well-considered and deliver clear public value.”