Ballarat City Council Endorses Freight Hub Plan and Policy Updates This Week

Ballarat City Council formally endorsed the discontinuance of Ring Road at the rail level crossing in Mitchell Park to enable the $55 million Intermodal Freight Hub at the Ballarat West Employment Zone. The move prevents freight trains from blocking traffic at the crossing.

Freight Hub Infrastructure

The decision supports the development of the Intermodal Freight Hub at the Ballarat West Employment Zone. Council action on the Ring Road level crossing in Mitchell Park clears a key requirement for the project to proceed without ongoing traffic interruptions from rail movements.

Graffiti and Vandalism Policy

Council adopted an updated Graffiti and Vandalism Policy. The policy includes pursuing civil restitution for repair or replacement costs when offenders are found guilty, strengthening commitments to safe public spaces across the city.

Bike Path Tender

The Council awarded the tender for the Glenelg Highway Bike Path works to Central Vic Civil Pty Ltd. The contract advances a more connected and active city through improved cycling infrastructure.

Notices on Hoon Driving and Vandalism

Council endorsed two Notices of Motion requiring reports on illegal hoon driving and rising vandalism of public assets. The reports will include recommendations to deter these issues within existing powers.

Her Majesty’s Theatre Funding

An Expression of Interest process is underway to identify a new trustee arrangement for Her Majesty’s Theatre Deductible Gift Recipient funds. The change responds to Australian Tax Office regulatory requirements, with a final report due back to Council in April 2026.

These matters were considered at the first council meeting of 2026. Further updates on the projects and reports will be provided through standard council channels as they progress.