Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV) is currently undergoing a review following its initial three-year term, with Engage Victoria appointed to carry out the process.
Surveys, workshops and online submissions have been synthesised into a draft plan reflecting the priorities of the sector, traditional owners, and the local communities that surround and live in the alpine resorts.
Reducing costs, implementing fair pricing for locals and staff, and streamlining funding and public transport emerged as the main changes suggested through the initial consultations.
Workshops and consultations for the three-year review were held throughout May, June and July 2025, meeting with many stakeholders and representatives of the alpine sector.
These sessions have provided valuable input into the development of the Alpine Resorts Strategic Plan (ARSP) for 2025–2030.
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Consultation included more than 120 individuals in face-to-face workshops, 290 online submissions, and a further four online workshops.
In the first report by consultants Engage Victoria, barriers were identified, with the most important being reducing costs for entry to resorts, governance and regulation, improved accessibility and affordability, year-round destination planning, volunteer and recreational group support, and gaining commercial partners.
The initial report by engage Victoria has listed suggested changes included boards to work more closely with locally invested leaders, ensuring transparent stakeholder consultation, and empowering Aboriginal parties and local businesses in decision-making. These suggestions came from the series of workshops held across the regions and Melbourne.
It was also highlighted that shifting focus to green-season tourism by investing in off-season infrastructure and events, and implementing inclusive marketing strategies to attract a broader range of visitors, could enhance the value of the high country.
For the tourism sector, it was suggested that commercial operators such as lift companies, critical for both snow and green-season activities, could be better utilised.
Engage Victoria commenced surveys and consultations in June, inviting stakeholders and community members to share their priorities and insights on a range of topics.
For Mt Buller (the largest respondent group), 31 per cent took part, while Mt Stirling had eight per cent of respondents.
Engage asked respondents to “Picture the Victorian alpine sector in 25 years’ time (2050). In an ideal world, describe what you would like to see.”
Responses were clear: “In 2050, the Victorian alpine sector is envisioned as a thriving, inclusive, and climate-resilient destination that operates year-round. Respondents imagine a future where the alpine region is not only a hub for snow sports but also a vibrant centre for green-season recreation, community life, and environmental leadership.”
Values recorded included:
• Places to spend leisure time and opportunities for recreation and culture beyond the snow season;
• Natural environmental values;
• Environmental protection;
• Accessibility and inclusivity; and
• Cultural and historical heritage.
Engage also asked what it would take to make the plan a reality.
Six areas were identified: recreation, infrastructure, affordability, governance, climate change and community development.
The top objectives were to enhance the visitor experience and implement practical policy and regulatory reform.
Seven suggested new objectives were also highlighted, many of which had already been covered.
The initial report listed seven areas for suggested actions, including the recommendation that government (including ARV, Invest Victoria and RDV) work in partnership with private investors.
Developing and implementing climate adaptation plans, transitioning to net-zero operations and educating visitors on environmental challenges were also recommended, with suggested leads being government agencies (DEECA, ARV) supported by climate experts and community groups.
Top of the list for ensuring the success of the alpine sector was community engagement — strengthening collaboration with local clubs, volunteers and regional communities through forums, workshops and genuine consultation, ensuring local voices are heard and acted upon across all six Victorian alpine regions under ARV’s guidance.
Established on 1 October 2022, Alpine Resorts Victoria was designed to bring a sector-wide focus and strategic leadership to the management of Victoria’s six alpine resorts: Falls Creek, Lake Mountain, Mt Buller, Mt Baw Baw, Mt Hotham and Mt Stirling.
The initial term was for three years.
The draft report and recommendations to the Government will be released for public comment shortly.
The report is expected to go before Parliament in October, at the conclusion of ARV’s first three-year term.
ARV will continue to update the website and all stakeholders with information as the development of the plan progresses. For further information and to follow the review, visit www.engage.vic.gov.au/alpine-resorts-strategic-plan-2025
