Articles tagged: State Government
Liquor licence fee relief for Otways venues following bushfires
Gellibrand River Hotel co-owner Dorthe Koorn says “every bit helps” amid this week’s State Government announcement of waiving and refunding liquor licence fees for bushfire-affected businesses.
Farmer reappointed to role, ready to respond
The State Government has reappointed Peter Tuohey as its rural assistance commissioner to continue supporting rural and regional farming communities.
Apology marks ‘new era’ but more action needed
A Colac Aboriginal leader has responded to the State Government’s formal apology.
BUDGET BLOW: State Government to ‘phase out’ critical P-12 funds
P-12 schools across the Colac Otway region are facing new blows to funding, despite some being set to welcome additional students in 2026.
New agency unlocks outdoor experiences
The Victorian Fisheries Authority and the Game Management Authority will no longer exist as separate agencies with the State Government announcing a new one-stop-shop.
More grants to support emergency service crews
Victoria’s emergency services have received a further funding boost through a new grant round.
Extended pause on fire levy payment
The start date for the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund increase has been pushed back two years, a state budget update has revealed.
Pill testing service aims for less harm
With festival season well underway, Colac and district community members are encouraged to make informed health decisions with the continuation of the State Government’s mobile pill testing trial.
Worker protection welcomed
Colac business owners have welcomed new laws that are set to protect customer-facing workers across Victoria.
Council road grant hopes
Colac Otway Shire Council is hoping to get funding for three road safety projects including an upgrade to a notorious Elliminyt intersection.
Last day to have say on housing
People have until today to provide feedback on a plan to rezone cemetery land to develop 50 social housing dwellings in Colac.
Housing feedback closing
People have until Monday to provide feedback on a plan to rezone cemetery land to develop 50 social housing dwellings in Colac.
State Treaty gives voice to First Peoples
First Peoples from across south-west Victoria have praised the latest historic step forward in the Statewide Treaty process, with the bill now becoming law across the state.
Feedback called for on renewable zones
Consultation is now open on Victoria’s proposed renewable energy zone orders, one of which includes a small part of the Colac Otway Shire.
Health divide for rural women
Experts have weighed in on a new State Government report into women’s pain, with a series of recommendations aimed at improving womens’ wellbeing across south-west Victoria.
Government refutes planning claim
The State Government has rejected claims that Traditional Owner groups will have approval power for most planning permits under a proposed overhaul.
Tiny towns take note: funds now available
Community groups in Colac district’s tiniest towns are encouraged to apply for their chance at a $50,000 government grant.
Colac Otway receives road safety grants
Two Colac and district applicants will receive a funding boost to benefit road users among the community.
Sports fund supporting local talent
Colac and district’s young sports stars can apply for vouchers to help pay for their sporting endeavours.
Apostles fee still possible
The State Government has not ruled out the potential for visitors having to pay to visit the Twelve Apostles.
Fees waived under new support
The State Government will roll out a new relief package for drought-affected farmers, including across Colac and district.
Newest nurses need places
A Colac district nursing student is calling on the community to sign a petition pushing for the State Government to make more graduating roles available, after students across the state missed out.
Concerns over state’s energy plan
Polwarth MP Richard Riordan has weighed in on the State Government’s new Victorian Transmission Plan, with concerns about transparency and future funding.
Shire features in renewable zone
A small portion of land at the northern end of the Colac Otway Shire is featured in a new proposed renewable energy zone.
