Candidates in the running for election at the November State Election are being called on to commit to improving drainage infrastructure in Lakes Entrance with Council calling for investment to be locked in to protect homes and businesses, reduce flood risk, and support future population growth.
Council is seeking $4 million in Victorian Government funding to deliver targeted drainage upgrades that will strengthen flood resilience in one of Victoria’s most climate-exposed coastal communities, with every party and independent candidate being asked to commit to the funding amount.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the investment is critical to both current community safety and future development.
“We need drainage infrastructure for Lakes Entrance that protects people today while also supporting the town’s future growth,” Cr Ashworth said.
The proposed works include upgrades in priority flood-affected areas such as Eastern Beach Road and surrounding catchments, improved stormwater infrastructure to reduce localised flooding, and more resilient systems designed to support climate adaptation and future growth.
Lakes Entrance is vulnerable to flooding due to its low-lying coastal setting, exposure to storm surges and increasingly intense rainfall events. Existing drainage infrastructure is no longer considered fit for purpose, with localised flooding continuing to impact homes, businesses and key access routes including Eastern Beach Road and Cunninghame Street.
The project is also closely linked to long-term housing and growth planning, with the Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area including around 1,500 rezoned residential lots on higher ground above the township.
Upgrading stormwater infrastructure is a key requirement to enable the staged release and development of this land, supporting population growth and economic activity while also assisting in the lifting of long-standing planning controls affecting the township.
The work is expected to facilitate development of approximately 1,500 lots, contributing to housing supply and supporting East Gippsland’s share of the state’s target of 11,000 new dwellings by 2051.
The project also supports environmental management outcomes, including improved stormwater treatment to help protect the Gippsland Lakes Ramsar-listed wetland from nutrients and pollutants.
“This is about protecting what we have, but also unlocking what’s needed for the future – stronger resilience and the ability for Lakes Entrance to grow sustainably,” Cr Ashworth said.
The project forms part of Council’s broader advocacy priorities ahead of the November State Election, with a focus on securing investment in critical infrastructure that supports community safety, housing supply and regional growth.
Council’s advocacy package includes priority investments in roads, health, housing, flood and drainage infrastructure, sporting facilities, emergency services, forestry transition and public land management, along with reform of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.
