Published on 08 July 2026
Mornington Peninsula Shire has released its draft Arts, Culture and Events Plan 2027–2037, outlining a clear vision and approach to supporting a connected, prosperous creative sector and a vibrant year-round events calendar. The draft plan outlines how the Shire will support and invest in arts, culture and community experiences across five key areas: our Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, public art, the creative sector (including music, performing arts and other creative industries), festivals and events, and cultural heritage. Mornington Peninsula Mayor Councillor Stephen Batty said the draft plan reflects strong community interest in the future of local arts, culture and events, and encouraged residents to have their say before it's finalised. “The Plan reflects on what makes our Peninsula's creative community distinctive and sets the direction for the next decade. I invite the community to read the draft and share their thoughts before submissions close," Cr Batty said. It was developed following extensive community consultation with 4,356 engagements and survey responses from residents, artists, event organisers, visitors and culture lovers helping to shape its direction. Councillor David Gill, a member of the Shire’s Arts and Culture Advisory Panel, said the draft Plan recognises the scope of creativity across the Peninsula, the economic value of the Arts industry and the health and wellbeing advantages of a thriving Arts Culture. “We heard from artists, musicians, performers, writers, event organisers and community groups right across the Shire, and this draft Plan reflects that diversity. It backs our creative people in the Shire’s cultural future and we now welcome further community feedback,” Cr Gill said. The draft plan is now open for community review and comment before it's finalised. Whether you're a resident, a visitor or simply someone who values what the Peninsula has to offer creatively, we want to hear from you. Your feedback will help ensure the final version reflects local priorities and supports a vibrant, inclusive and creative future for our region. The draft plan and survey are online at mornpen.vic.gov.au/artscultureevents before Wednesday 19 August.
Artwork credit: Imperative (deleted scenes) by Holly Ryan.