Benalla Rural City Council has completed Phase 1 of the Heritage Gap Study. The review of the existing heritage places in Benalla and identification of gaps in the protection of heritage places is complete. Community input to this phase has helped shape the draft study. Your comment is sought prior to the finalisation of the heritage study.

The draft Thematic Environmental History has been prepared that documents the historical development of the municipality, considering factors that have contributed to its culture and development, including the interactions of First Nations and European settlement.

A draft Heritage Gap Study includes a review of the existing heritage overlays within the Benalla township and gaps of heritage places, identified through reference to the Thematic Environmental History.

The Heritage Gap Study reviews the existing HO26 – Benalla Central Heritage Precinct and recommends some changes to the mapping of that area. Other places reviewed include:

• 4 new residential precincts are identified in the Benalla East and Benalla West areas.
• 12 places of individual significance are identified.
• 10 existing heritage places are provided with an updated Statement of Significance.

You are invited to review the draft Thematic Environmental History and the draft Heritage Gap Study.

Community input will ensure that the history of the municipality is accurately documented, and that heritage places are properly recognised and managed.

All comments received regarding the draft Thematic Environmental History and Heritage Gap Study will be reviewed and modified. The final draft of the Heritage Gap Study will be presented to Council for adoption and preparation of a planning scheme for the inclusion into the planning scheme.

Formal consultation will occur as a part of the planning scheme amendment process.

The submissions to the draft Heritage Gap Study close on Friday, 19 June 2026.