Cutting the guesswork: Council's 'Speed Dating' session returns in August

Published on

Developers, business owners and community members with a project in mind are invited to come ‘Speed Dating’ at the Council in August. 

People sitting at table speed dating

In one visit, community members can get sit down for a face-to-face chat and get information and answers from Council's Statutory Planning, Strategic Planning, Environmental Health, Engineering, Economic Development and Building Services teams - all in one room.  

The session is designed to provide clear and practical answers, including: 

  • How to apply for planning consent and what the process involves 
  • Which Council departments will be involved in your project and what issues they'll expect you to address 
  • Who else needs to be consulted or give consent before your project can proceed 
  • Which outside agencies may need to be engaged (if any) 
  • What funding or grants might currently be available to support your project 

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council wanted to support local projects to flourish. 

“Local government is the only government with a front desk. We are always listening to the community and acting on their behalf. If there’s something we can do to help get your project off the ground, we will,” said Cr Rabie.  

"This session exists to save people time and guesswork by giving them direct access to those who know what needs to be done. You can get in the room with five different departments at once, sit down with all of them in one morning and walk away knowing exactly what you need to do next." 

When: Tuesday, 11 August 2026  

Where: Mansfield Shire Council Chambers  

Time: Drop in any time between 10:00am–12:00pm or 1:00pm–3:00pm  

RSVP: Not required - just come along with your questions 

Please contact Derek Beautyman, Economic Development Officer Business & Industry with any queries: derek.beautyman@mansfield.vic.gov.au  or call 03 5775 8586.  

Tagged as: Planning