The Malmsbury Town Centre Vision & Action Plan, developed in May 2025, presents a community-led strategy to revitalise and enhance the town's public spaces, infrastructure, and identity. Funded by the Victorian Government’s Tiny Towns Fund and supported by Tourism Macedon Ranges, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Business Kyneton, the plan aims to celebrate Malmsbury’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and creative spirit. Guided by local voices and aligned with the broader Macedon Ranges’ ‘Slow Paradise’ ethos, the plan emphasises thoughtful growth, community resilience, and authentic, sustainable development to foster a welcoming, connected, and vibrant town centre.

Key Points of Interest:

Community Engagement: The strategy is shaped by a workshop held on March 27, 2025, involving residents, business owners, and community members, ensuring local perspectives drive the vision and initiatives.

Regional Vision – ‘Slow Paradise’: Emphasises mindful living, deep connections, and celebrating life’s simple pleasures, reflecting a deliberate, authentic, and sustainable approach to regional development.

Core Principles: Focus on sustainability, cultural heritage, inclusivity, community resilience, and collaborative governance to support regenerative placemaking.

Town Character & Assets: Malmsbury is recognised for its bluestone heritage, Botanic Gardens, green spaces, and a slower pace of life, fostering a strong sense of community pride.

Site Observations & Challenges: Issues identified include outdated signage and wayfinding, uninviting town entrances, and opportunities to activate underused spaces and improve first impressions.

Strategic Actions: The plan outlines short-term (0-6 months), medium-term (6-12 months), and long-term (beyond 12 months) initiatives to implement the vision, including improvements to signage, activation of public spaces, and infrastructure upgrades.

Next Steps: Focused on community collaboration, securing funding, and phased implementation to ensure sustainable growth aligned with the town’s unique identity.