Farmers and agricultural stakeholders from East Gippsland and Wellington are being invited to speak with one voice as 3 key agencies review a landmark plan for advocating on behalf of the region's agricultural sector.
East Gippsland Shire Council, Wellington Shire Council and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (EGCMA) are working together to review the Looking Ahead: Gippsland Drought Response Proposal, first developed in 2019, to guide advocacy and support for agriculture across both municipalities.
The original document was widely recognised by State and Federal Governments, helping secure attention for Gippsland's drought and rural support priorities and providing a strong framework for collaboration between government and industry.
Since then, the pressures facing farmers have broadened. Drought remains a key concern, but producers across both shires are now also contending with climate variability, rising input costs, workforce shortages, biosecurity risks, market volatility and shifting community expectations.
A short survey will give farmers from both Local Government Areas the opportunity to have a direct say in shaping a united set of local priorities for the sector.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the strength of the plan depended on farmers across the region speaking as one.
"This document is being reviewed to ensure it continues to advocate for and support our agricultural sector, but it can only reflect farmers' priorities if we hear directly from them," Cr Ashworth said.
"Whether you operate a beef, dairy, sheep, cropping, horticulture or mixed farming enterprise, your insights will help shape the priorities that matter most to agriculture across Gippsland."
The survey will help:
A steering committee of the three lead agencies will oversee the review, supported by a Project Control Group of industry representatives and stakeholders.
The survey launched at the Red Meat Conference at Sale Baptist Church on 25 August 2026 and closes 25 September 2026.
For more information and to complete the survey, visit to Agricultural Assistance page on our website or through completing the Looking Ahead survey.