Published on 30 July 2026
Welcome to a quick wrap up of key items that were discussed at our Council Meeting on Monday 27 July 2026.
1. 2026 Social Justice Charter
Council has adopted a revised Hume Social Justice Charter following a period of community consultation; the Charter upholds Council’s commitment to achieving the best outcomes for the Hume community, ensuring they are fair, just and dignified.
Hume was the first level of Government in Australia to adopt a Social Justice Charter in 2001 and will celebrate 25 years of the document at a community event on Saturday 29 August.
2. External Grant Management Policy
After being introduced in 2024, the External Grant Management Policy was reviewed to consider its performance as well as impacts of the rising costs of major community infrastructure projects.
Changes to the policy will add extra safeguards to help protect Council's financial position. This includes limiting Council's contribution to partly funded projects and ensuring that any unexpected or unsolicited funding opportunities are only considered if they do not require Council to provide additional funding. These changes will not affect the original intent of the policy.
3. Memorial Request and Seat Donation – Eileen Powell
Council has approved the installation of a new park bench seat and memorial plaque in memory of the late Eileen Powell in the dog off leash area at the Emu Bottom Wetland Reserve.
Installation is subject to approval for a seat first being obtained in an endorsed Cultural Heritage Management Plan, which is currently being sought for proposed works at the reserve.
4. Canterbury Hills Estate Truck Movement
A report into the Canterbury Hills Estate truck movement issue found that VCAT action has stopped the trucks, however Council continues to work on a long-term solution.
The report recommends improving information available to the community about planning investigations, including how community members can participate in, and stay informed throughout the investigation processes. It was also recommended Council write to the State Government to advocate for stronger planning enforcement powers and cost recovery options for councils through VCAT proceedings.
5. Congratulations and Condolences
Council extended condolences to the family of Geoff Hanlon
Council congratulated Hume Women’s Shelter on acquiring land in Greenvale for the development of a new facility.