Gifting of Land Murtoa Update
Published on 22 July 2026
Yarriambiack Shire Council Strengthens Housing Opportunities in Murtoa
Mayor Andrew McLean has welcomed the successful transfer of land to support the development of new housing in Murtoa, describing the project as a practical example of Council's commitment to increasing housing options across the Yarriambiack Shire in line with the Council Plan 2025-2029.
Council has formally completed the gifting of a parcel of land at 16 Cromie Street, Murtoa to Murtoa Housing Innovation Pty Ltd, paving the way for the construction of four new dwellings, with capacity for a fifth home in the future.
Mayor McLean said the project demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to addressing housing availability in regional communities.
"Housing availability remains one of the most significant challenges facing rural communities, and Council is committed to supporting initiatives that increase housing choice and availability across the Yarriambiack Shire," Cr McLean said.
"This project directly supports the objectives of our Council Plan 2025-2029 by helping create more housing opportunities, attracting new residents, supporting local workforce needs and strengthening the long-term vitality of our towns."
The land at 16 Cromie Street was originally purchased using funds generated by the Murtoa community through the former Murtoa Community Housing Asset Committee of Council, with the intention of increasing local housing stock. Council subsequently developed two units on the site, supported by a $240,000 contribution from the former committee and State Government grant funding.
While Council had sought additional funding opportunities to further develop the remaining land, these efforts were unsuccessful. Opportunities later emerged through Wimmera Southern Mallee Development's housing initiatives, which established Murtoa Housing Innovation Pty Ltd to deliver additional housing outcomes in the township.
Recognising the community origins of the land and the opportunity to accelerate housing development, Council resolved in September 2024 to subdivide the property and gift the undeveloped parcel to Murtoa Housing Innovation Pty Ltd.
Since that decision, Council has worked through an extensive planning, legal and subdivision process, including planning approvals, subdivision registration, title creation and the execution of a Section 173 Agreement governing the future development of the site.
The transfer was successfully completed and registered in June 2026.
Mayor McLean said the successful completion of the process highlights Council's proactive approach to facilitating housing growth.
"Council has taken a leadership role in helping unlock this development opportunity. By working collaboratively with our partners, we have been able to turn an underutilised parcel of land into a housing project that will deliver real benefits for Murtoa and the wider region."
"Every new home helps address housing shortages, supports local employers seeking workers, and creates opportunities for people and families to live and thrive in our communities."
Murtoa Housing Innovation has already commenced planning and development works for the site, with a contractor appointed to construct four dwellings. Landscaping designs have been commissioned, sewer infrastructure is currently being installed, and construction is expected to be completed by late June 2027.
Mayor McLean said the project will make a meaningful contribution to the local housing supply and provide a strong foundation for future housing initiatives across the shire.
"This is an exciting milestone for Murtoa and another important step towards building resilient and sustainable communities across Yarriambiack. We look forward to seeing these homes completed and welcoming new residents to the township."
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Mayor
Cr Andrew McLean