Living in Dorset

Dorset Council provides community services based on the principles of quality, equity, value and responsiveness.

Visiting Dorset

Dorset has a unique blend of wilderness, wildlife, stunning scenery, mining heritage, secluded beaches and world class golf courses.

Contact us

  • Phone (03) 6352 6500
  • Fax (03) 6352 6509
  •  After Hours: 1300 858 824

Business community in Dorset

Dorset Council is focused on providing support to potential investors to facilitate sustainable developments large and small.

Contact us

  • Phone (03) 6352 6500
  • Fax (03) 6352 6509
  • After Hours 1300 858 824
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Dorset's Vision

"an inclusive, thriving and connected community"

Council’s Strategic Plan will assist in driving future prosperity in the Dorset region. The Strategic Plan simply and easily defines what Council will be doing over the 2023 – 2032 term and why these initiatives are important to the municipality. The Strategic Plan centres on four key pillars, including improving the liveability of the community, stimulating economic growth, improving service delivery and reducing Council’s environmental footprint.

Strategic Plan 2023 - 2032


  • Council's rates, fees and charges provide value to the community and are some of the lowest in regional Australia
  • all Council buildings are free of charge to Dorset community groups
  • all recreational facilities are free of charge to Dorset sporting groups
  • entry to Council swimming pools is free of charge

  • Planning approval fees for development of eligible new small businesses and existing larger businesses are discounted by 50%;
  • Renewal of annual food business registration fees are waived for permanent residents; and
  • New small businesses are eligible for a 50% rate remission during their first 12 months of operation.
New Business Investment Assistance Policy

Latest News

Sunrise from the sideling lookout
30 June 2025

Media Release | $120 Million Sideling Upgrade a Multi-Generational Missed Opportunity Without B-Double Standard

Dorset Mayor Rhys Beattie has said the Council’s original Tasman Highway ‘Sideling’ business case, which secured the funding, was predicated on upgrading the road to a B-Double rated highway and shortening the journey via a new realignment through Corkerys Road. Mayor Beattie described the current plan by the Department of State Growth as a multi-generational missed opportunity and called on the State Government to reconsider its position.
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Awesome job Dorset
26 June 2025

Recycle Rewards Update

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Pontoon Damage
26 June 2025

Damage | Bridport Pontoon

9 July Update: The pontoon is undergoing inspection this week, with access restricted at times.
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