Why is this a focus area?

Yarra Ranges is one of the most disaster‑affected areas in Australia. Since 2006, there have been 42 major storms, fires or floods that needed federal recovery support. People here are already feeling the effects of climate change with hotter days, stronger storms, shifting rainfall, increased bushfire danger, more flooding and power outages.

Climate change is also increasing costs. By 2030, insurance could become too expensive for up to 40% of homes in Yarra Ranges, depending on the area. Supporting communities through the shift to cleaner, local and more resilient energy systems, such as solar and batteries, is now essential for protecting people, reducing costs and keeping critical services powered during emergencies.

What has the community said so far?

People recognise that climate change and extreme weather are increasing, many having already been affected. The community wants Council to take climate action, support adaptation and disaster preparedness, provide clear information and community collaboration. Young people especially want strong climate action, with only a small minority of people expressing different views.

What has Council been doing in this space?

In 2024–25, Council worked to support community resilience by:

• Upgrading 23 Council buildings with solar, batteries and generators.

• Example: Steels Creek Community Centre now has solar, a 22 kWh battery and a generator.

• Building the Monbulk Resilient Energy Precinct (Microgrid) with 100 kW of solar, 201 kWh of batteries and a 150 kVA generator.

• Installing energy efficient LED lighting at three recreation sites, cutting energy use by around half.

• Loaning Energy and Water Saver Kits to local businesses to help them find leaks, reduce energy use and lower costs.

These actions show how strengthening resilience and accelerating the energy transition work together to keep people safe, reduce emissions, lower costs and support community wellbeing.