Before embarking on building, renovating, tree removal/lopping or any other works, it is important to ascertain whether you require a permit.
Why do you need to get planning and building approval?
Planning permits and building permits serve different purposes.
A planning permit is required to ensure that your project complies with the relevant zoning and overlay controls applicable to your property and to ensure that your project considers its impact on the surrounding area with respect to character, built form and materials, surrounding neighbours, traffic, environmental impacts and community need.
A building permit focuses on the technical aspects of construction and safety ensuring that your project complies with the relevant building codes and regulations.
Links to the relevant controls are:
What types of projects need a permit?
Here are some common projects that need approval - contact us even if your project is not listed here:
- multi-dwelling developments and apartments
- construction of a new single dwelling or dwelling extension
- buildings and works, including some internal changes to a building
- demolition/partial demolition and new works to buildings in a Heritage Overlay
- garages, carports, sheds, pergolas, decks, verandahs
- removing trees and vegetation
- new land uses such as a childcare centre, medical centre etc...
- earthworks
- Septic tanks
- tennis courts
- swimming pools and spas
- fencing
- business identification signage on a building or property
- subdivision of land
- covenant removal/variations
- liquor license for a restaurant/cafe
- consent for any works or tree removal and the like if your land has a Section 173 agreement.
- tables and chairs and/or signage on the footpath
- asset protection
You have a dream project - where to start
New to building or renovation?
For advice on all things renovation and construction, visit the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
Every dream project is different with its own needs and challenges. Here are the steps to give you a rough guide on the process, timeframes and costs when starting any project.
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Contact us to discuss your project with us to confirm if you need a planning permit
You can also view:
- Apply for a planning property enquiry
- Apply for pre-application advice
- Learn about the planning permit process
If you don't need a planning permit you can proceed straight to building permit
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If we confirm that you need a planning permit, start the application
After you apply you can also -
Get a building permit before you start construction
We do not issue building permits so you will need to contact a building surveyor to organise a building permit.You will need the permit to ensure what you're hoping to construct or change is done right and to building code standards.
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Apply for any other permits you need before you start works
You may need permits for connecting to infrastructure, protection of public assets and more. Often you will find out which permits you need throughout the process, so it is always best to discuss your plans with us or industry professionals.
Some common permits include:
Hoping to build sustainably?
We've created a list of resources to help you build a sustainable, energy-efficient home or commercial building.
View resources
Have you lost your pet?
If you have lost your companion please see below if we have found your friend. If you believe you have found your pet in the list below, please contact our pound.
Microchipping your pet identifies and protects them.
Your pet must have a microchip prior to registration.
How microchips help your pets
Microchipping your pet is important because if they’re lost, we or animal shelters can identify them.
If you’d like to learn more about the benefits, visit microchipping information for dog and cat owners.
How microchips work
A microchip is a tiny computer chip the size of a grain of rice. Each chip has a unique number and when scanned, will identify your pet. The number will be on the microchip registry and other details such as your:
- address
- contact details.
Do microchips hurt
The procedure takes a few seconds and is painless. A vet can microchip your pet.
The microchip implant will be just under your pet’s skin. Usually between the shoulder blades at the back of the neck.
Exemptions from microchipping
If you need an exemption, you’ll need to show proof from a vet of why the procedure will cause your pet harm.
Update your pet’s microchip details when moving house
If you’ve moved to a new place, update your pet’s microchip details with the domestic animal (microchip) registries.
While not mandatory, desexing sterilises a dog or cat so they can't have puppies or kittens. Desexing can also reduce roaming behaviour or territorial aggression. It’s important to remember kittens as young as 4 months of age are able to breed.
You’ll also receive reductions on registration fees after desexing your pet.
Only a qualified vet can carry out the desexing operation.
For more information on desexing, visit the Victorian Government's website for desexing cats and dogs.
The mighty Yarra River winds its way through Manningham, where walking and cycling trails hug the banks. Get out into the fresh air with those you love and have an adventure beneath the gum trees.
Regional trails
Enjoy jogging and cycling opportunities along our regions trails.
Encounter native flora and fauna on the Mullum Mullum Trail and cross the suspension bridge at Finns Reserve and you may even be lucky enough to spot a platypus in the Yarra. Continue onto the Main Yarra Trail you can ride your bicycle all the way to the city or complete a 42km circuit by joining the Koonung Trail and the Eastlink Trail back to your starting point.
Dog friendly spaces
Your four-legged friend can join you on a lead in the outdoors at a range of parks across Manningham. Explore Banksia Park in Bulleen, Stiggants Reserve in Warrandyte, Ruffey Lake Park or Westerfolds Park in Templestowe.
Playspaces
Find adventure at Wombat Bend. The massive adventure playground and maze provides adventures for the whole family. On the banks of the Yarra for that extra special day, it’s dog friendly with outdoor cooking facilities, a fitness station and so much more.
The fenced wonguim wilam is located in Warrandyte and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. This newly upgraded playspace includes a range of play opportunities to discover as well as a new picnic shelter, barbeque and plenty of furniture and grassy open space to enjoy.
Self Guided Neighbourhood Walks
Explore Manningham's local environment with 20 self-guided walking brochures that showcase the wealth of natural, historic, cultural and environmental assets we have right here in Manningham!
Offering walks from Bulleen to Wonga Park and everywhere in between, the guides include detailed maps, as well as interesting and informative notes to enrich you walking experience.
Yarra River - Warrandyte
Warrandyte River Reserve is a great place to explore with many activities and places of interest to enjoy. Follow the Yarra River through Stiggants Reserve - it is instantly relaxing and calming and there are colourful artworks to enjoy along the path. Dip your toes in the water, try your hand at fishing or grab a canoe and paddle down the river to Pound Bend Reserve and Warrandyte State Park for a truly unique experience.
Currawong Bush Reserve
Encounter Australian wildlife, with koalas, wombats and kangaroos amongst the mighty gum trees of Currawong Bush Reserve. Native flora in bloom, bright red bottle brushes, sunny yellow wattles, and so much more photogenic subjects for your keen eye. Landscapers, sculptors and artists have helped create a natural play space for kids to explore and immerse themselves in the outside world.
Offering eight different walking trails, you can get out there, explore nature and take a moment to breathe in this escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in this oasis in the heart of the suburbs.
Find your local outdoor adventure in Manningham.
Find your local is here to help you discover and explore the many unique products, services, food experiences and outdoor adventures that are all here in Manningham!
Follow us on Instagram
@findyourlocalmanningham and get to know the local businesses that support our community.
Check out some of the things you can do with family and friends, right on your doorstep!
Walking and bike trails through bushland in the Warrandyte State Park. Along the Mullum Mullum Creek and Yarra River (Warrandyte River Reserve) and through wide open spaces of Ruffy Lake Park and Westerfolds Park. Encounter an abundance of native flora and fauna. Join the Main Yarra Trail at Finns Reserve and ride all the way to the city!
- adventure playgrounds at Wombat Bend, Warrandyte River Reserve and Ruffy Lake
- wineries, distilleries and fine dining in Warrandyte South and Wonga Park
- local shopping centres at Jackson Court, Templestowe Village and Tunstall Square and more
- the Yarra River – enjoy walking trails, canoeing, fishing and swimming
- culturally significant Heide Museum of Modern Art in Bulleen and the Manningham Art Gallery in Doncaster
- dog friendly parks at Finns Reserve in Lower Templestowe, Banksia Park in Bulleen or Stiggants Reserve in Warrandyte.
Ready to get out and explore? Check out how One Hour Out recently spent a day in Manningham.
How local businesses can get involved
Would you like to share something about your business with the Manningham community? This might be an introduction to your business or the story behind it. Or maybe a new product offering or upcoming event.
We are looking for business content to promote on our Find Your Local Instagram page. For the chance to have your business featured, click the button below.
Explore Manningham
Encounter, experience and explore your Manningham.
When do plans need to be endorsed?
You may need to submit updated plans for endorsement as a condition of a planning permit before a use or development can commence. This can include:
- Amended development plans (commonly referred to as “Condition 1 Plans”, in reference to the requirements of condition 1 of a Planning Permit.)
- Landscape Plans
- Construction management plans
- Other management plans for ongoing requirements once a development is complete (such as a bushfire management plan, waste management plan – refer to conditions of your planning permit for further advice)
Multi-unit developments may also need to submit updated on-site detention (stormwater management system) plans.
How much does it cost?
While most requests for endorsement of plans do not require payment of a fee, the following fees may be payable in specific circumstances.
- If a permit includes a condition requiring a landscape bond be paid, this must be done before any plans are assessed for endorsement.
- If submitted plans are repeatedly determined to be unsatisfactory, subsequent assessment of revised plans may attract a fee.
How to lodge
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Search for your permit on the Planning Applications Portal.
- Select the lodgement type from the available actions for Planning Permit applicant.
Note: If an amended Permit (Section 72 Amendment) includes a condition requiring submission of plans for approval, search for the original Permit number (with a “PL”, “PLN” or “PVN” application reference, rather than “PLA” or “PVA”) when lodging plans.
What happens next?
Once we receive plans and landscape bond is paid (where applicable), your endorsement request will be allocated to a planning officer, who will generally review plans within two to three weeks. Endorsed plans will either be sent to the applicant, or advice will be provided requiring further changes to be made if plans do not sufficiently respond to conditions of the permit.
If changes to plans have been made beyond the scope of the conditions of the Permit, we may direct you to lodge an amendment to the permit.
Find a world your taste buds will delight in, with Manningham’s fine dining. Tempt yourself with locally owned cafes and bakeries. Wine and dine at award winning restaurants, nestled amongst the trees, or standing proud in trendy suburbia.
Cafes and restaurants
Enjoy coffees, cake and hot chocolate as you snuggle into a comfy chair at cafes throughout Templestowe Village.
Find culinary delights at Tunstall Square Shopping Centre, in Doncaster East - home to over 45 businesses including great cafes, restaurant and fresh food providores.
Be spoilt for choice at Jackson Court Shopping Centre which effortlessly blends international and local flavours with Malaysian, Japanese, Greek and Persian cuisine on offer, among many others.
Local produce and wine
Explore local produce and take home some delicious jams and syrups at Warrandyte Berry farm, Aumanns Produce and more.
The renowned Yarra Valley food and wine region starts in Warrandyte. Find great wines, beer, cider and food at three cellar doors marking the entrance to the region.
Rob Dolan Wines
Rob Dolan Wines in Warrandyte South can guide you through a comprehensive tasting of wines at their cellar door. Purchase a 5 red star rating wine to takeaway or enjoy on the deck or in the gardens over a game of Bocce or Finska.
Pietro Gallo Estate
Nearby Pietro Gallo Estate is home to Olivigna Restaurant. Nestled in the sprawling hills of Warrandyte, celebrate the sweet life with friends and transports you to the Italian countryside through estate-grown produce, artisanal Grappa and liqueurs, and authentic Italian food and wine that is best savoured with friends.
Kellybrook Winery and Distillery
Kellybrook Winery and Distillery in Wonga Park is home to Kellybrook Wines, Rider Brew Co and Kelly Brothers Cider. Founded in 1962 making both still and sparkling cider from apples grown on site, grapes soon followed and Kellybrook was granted Yarra Valley’s first vigneron’s licence in 1969.
Find some of the finest art this state has to offer, all within Manningham. The joy of creation, the play of colour and design, the appeal to your senses, all come together in the vibrant art and culture of Manningham.
Heide Museum of Modern Art
Discover the culturally significant Heide Museum of Modern Art, one of Australia’s most important cultural institutions.
Established back in 1934, the history of the Heide MoMA shines through with artists, writers and intellectuals all having called Heide home. Inside Heide, you are spoiled with travelling exhibitions and the gardens are dotted with sculptures and art as well as a working kitchen garden.
Manningham Art Gallery
Find an eclectic program of contemporary art exhibitions at the Manningham Art Gallery, offering curated exhibitions from local and international artists.
Enjoy classes in creativity, painting, drawing and more, at the Manningham Art Studios and find your own creative side.
Warrandyte Historical Society
The Warrandyte Historical Society is home to a collection of early white settlement memorabilia. Pop in on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Public Art
Manningham residents and visitors can enjoy public artwork at various sites across the municipality, with nearly 20 unique works having been commissioned or acquired by Manningham Council in recent decades. These include the iconic 'Gateway' sculptures Sentinel, helmet and River Peel that mark the major entrances to the city.
Find the captivating and artistic side of Manningham.
Looking for a different local experience?
Waste and recycling facilities close to Manningham
View a list of our closest transfer stations (tips) and recycling centres below.
Not sure how to dispose of unwanted items?
Check out our A-Z waste and recycling guide or contact us.
Manningham is a vibrant and diverse community with people of all cultures and backgrounds. We have a proud history of a multicultural community living, working and celebrating together.
Here you will find more information on what makes Manningham a multicultural community and how you can get involved.
Diversity and Social Inclusion
Diversity and social inclusion is important to us. We consider the human rights, values and needs of our diverse communities.
Migrant and Refugee Welcome Zone
We are proud to declare our commitment to welcoming refugees and migrants into the community. We celebrate the opportunity to enhance the cultural and religious diversity of our community.
Community Learning Centres
Community learning centres encourages members of the community to participate in local activities, learning and education. They play an important part in strengthening local communities and we support such centres by providing funding and facilities.
Welcoming Cities
As part of the Welcoming Cities initiative, we want to build an Australia that is welcoming and inclusive to everyone. By building benchmarks for cultural diversity and inclusion, we are taking steps to being more welcoming to everyone in the community.
Australian Citizenship Ceremonies
Becoming an Australian citizen represents a commitment to Australia and its people. Applicants for Australian Citizenship Ceremonies will generally receive an invite to attend within three to six months from the date of their application approval. You will receive a written invitation to your ceremony from the Department of Home Affairs.
Get information in your language
We have interpreter services in multiple languages. Choose the way you want to communicate with us.
Want to stay up to date with inclusive activities and opportunities?
Our bi-monthly Community Strengthening e-newsletter aims to build resilient and vibrant communities by keeping you informed about programs, services, council projects, opportunities and important news for local community groups and organisations.
Do you need to receive the e-newsletter in another format? Contact us on 9840 9333 or email spcs@manningham.vic.gov.au.
English language classes
We have several English language classes locally where you can learn and practice your English skills. You can get classes at:
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Adult Multicultural Education Service (AMES) in Box Hill
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Blackburn English Language School in Blackburn
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Doncaster Library at MC Square in Doncaster
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Manningham U3A in Doncaster East
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Manningham Uniting Church in Doncaster East
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Pines Learning Centre in Doncaster East
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Living and Learning at Ajani in Templestowe Lower
If you have rooftop solar and are starting to consider a battery and/or electric vehicle (EV), you need to 'future-proof' your existing solar to ensure that you have capacity for these new technologies as they become more common and attainable.
This free information session will help you:
- understand how solar and batteries work
- find out whether your existing solar has capacity to add a battery and charge an EV
- understand how to 'future-proof' your household by upsizing your solar and/or adding a battery
- calculate expected savings and payback
- understand how to claim government rebates
All Manningham residents who attend on the night will go into the draw to win a Virtual Home Energy Assessment worth $225!
This phone assessment will be tailored to your household, helping you to plan for a cost-effective and comfortable transition away from gas. We may contact the winner to check on progress in both reducing bills and making the home more energy efficient.
To attend this event, you must have an internet enabled PC or device and be able to download Zoom. Don’t have Zoom? Download it for free. You’ll be provided with the Zoom meeting link when you book.
This free information session is brought to you by Manningham and the Australian Energy Foundation. If you're unable to make the session, you can still learn more about how to keep your home cool while saving energy on the Australian Energy Foundation website.
This event is for Manningham residents only.
Your local business is critical to our vibrant and thriving economy. Find permits, guides, news and other resources for starting a new business, running existing businesses, or growing your business.
For your business
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Starting a new business is both exciting and challenging. Find permits, guides, news and other resources for starting a business.
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Running a business from home can be a perfect way to balance family commitments. Or you might be starting out and wanting to minimise overheads. We have resources available to help your home based business.
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Find out if you need a footpath trading permit when placing tables and chairs, displays and signs on our footpaths.
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Find out which permits and registration you will need to set up a hairdressing, beauty salon, day spa, make-up business or gym.
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Find out what the mandatory requirements are for setting up a food business, whether it's a café or homemade preserves.
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Find out if you need a permit for your business. This includes new and existing businesses and those looking to expand.
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Find out what the regulations are for operating an accommodation business in Manningham, including hotels and bed and breakfasts.
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We've compiled a list of useful websites and tools to help guide you through the essential steps of setting up and running your small business.
Our strategy
Our Economic Development Strategy (EDS) is a six-year plan to support businesses and employment in Manningham.
Find Your Local
Find Your Local helps our community discover and explore the many unique products, services, food experiences and outdoor adventures that are all here in Manningham.
Follow us on Instagram @findyourlocalmanningham and send us details of your business so we can feature you on our page!
How can we help?
The Economic Development team is here to support you setting up and growing your business. We are your point of contact for business enquiries and support, permit information, workshops and events.
Contact us at business@manningham.vic.gov.au or on 9840 9333.
Stay in the loop
Subscribe to our monthly eNews to receive the latest business news, tips, upcoming events and networking opportunities.
Follow our Manningham Business Facebook page.
Get the latest from Manningham Business
The Manningham Business E-News is distributed monthly. It is a great way to stay up to date with local business news and to see what events are happening in Manningham.
Subscribe to our monthly E-News
Does your dog:
- bark when you're not home?
- destroy the house or car when you are absent?
- have toilet accidents when you aren't at home, even if they are toilet trained?
If you said yes to any of the above, your dog may be feeling distressed about being left alone.
Join certified separation anxiety trainer David, as he talks through the basics of alone time training, debunks some common myths, and shares some guidance on when to talk to your vet.
Here is a summary of the planning permit process.
1. Before you apply
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New to planning? Get a general understanding of what permits you will need before making any applications
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Get advice in writing about whether or not your proposed building, works or land use needs approval from us.
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Get feedback on your draft proposals, concepts or plans, before you submit a formal planning permit application.
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Check out some common scenarios and resources to help you understand what is needed before applying
2. Apply for the permit
Everything you need to know to start a planning permit application.
3. After we receive your application
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Stay up to date with your application's status in the planning applications portal.
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Find out what you need to do to amend your permit before the public notification stage.
4. Public notification of your application
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Review all Applications currently undergoing assessment.
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Any person who believes they will be affected by a planning application can lodge an objection during advertising.
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Find out what you need to do to amend your permit before the decision stage.
5. We notify you of our decision once permit issued
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Only the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) can review an application. After we have made a planning permit decision, we cannot undertake an internal review.
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Landscape bonds are a condition of a planning permit. We ask for payment of bonds to ensure landscaping works are properly completed.
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If you need more time for development or commencement of land use, you will need to ask for an extension to the planning permit.
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An Agreement under Section 173 of the Planning and Environment Act (or Section 173 Agreement) is a legal agreement between us and the owners of a property that is registered on a property title.
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If you would like to to amend approved plans or conditions of a Planning Permit, you can find out more information and submit your application here.
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If you are developing land in Manningham, you may need to submit a Construction Management Plan (CMP) as required by a condition of your planning permit.
6. Once your development is completed
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If your Planning Permit required payment of a landscape bond, you will need to apply for a refund once your development is completed.
Change your contact details or withdraw your application
Follow these easy steps to change your planning application details:
- Search for your planning application on the planning applications portal.
- Select change applicant details or withdraw your application.
View the available options below to learn more about your property's rates and valuations.
Topics in Rates and Valuations
Find out how your rates are calculated
Get familiar with the formula used to calculate your general rates, other charges and when rates are increased
Setting up a new business is an exciting and challenging time with many things to consider such as budgets, staffing, branding, operations and marketing. It's important to think about the big picture and how you would like to grow into the future.
Below you'll find a range of resources, tools and information available to support all types of local businesses.
Why start a business in Manningham?
We are here to help!
The Manningham Business Team are here to assist you with resources, networking events and various training programs throughout the year.
Get to know Manningham
Business essentials
Find out more about our suburbs
- Bulleen
- Doncaster
- Doncaster East
- Doncaster Hill
- Donvale
- Park Orchards
- Templestowe
- Templestowe Lower
- Wonga Park
- Warrandyte and Warrandyte South
When do you need a permit for your business?
Have a new business idea? Find out when you need a permit and where you can get advice.
Looking for volunteers?
Eastern Volunteers delivers services directly to the community and encourages and supports volunteering in the community.
Local business associations, networks and mentoring
There are a range of local associations that encourage networking and mentoring opportunities for small businesses as well as annual events and training.
Congratulations on choosing Manningham as your new home.
Manningham prides itself on providing high quality services and a range of lifestyle needs for residents of all ages.
Manningham is located just a short distance from the Melbourne CBD yet you can enjoy a sense of being 'out of the city' thanks to our abundance of green open spaces, scenic outlooks to the ranges, and tranquil walks along our waterways.
It is this unique balance of city and country that makes Manningham such a special place to live.
Welcome to Manningham
We are proud to deliver over 100 different services to our vibrant and diverse community. Here are a few to get you started.
Discover our area, history, and demographics
There’s something for everyone in Manningham. From sacred sites of the area’s First Peoples to the early gold mining settlements, the local area has a bit of everything for you to appreciate and enjoy.
Discover your neighbourhood using our maps
Use our maps to search Manningham, property addresses, wards, healthcare centres and other places of interest.
Find local places and spaces
Explore our local arts, crafts, fashion, food and drink and other recreational activities.
Preparing for emergencies
We are at risk of bushfires, flood and storms and work closely with authorities to plan for and be prepared in an emergency. Keep you and your family safe by being prepared and understanding your risks.
Sign up to Manningham Matters
Stay in touch with everything that is happening at Council and around our community by subscribing to our monthly eNewsletter. Receive the latest news about our essential services, programs, projects and activities, straight to your inbox.
Need help?
Join Victoria Devine, ‘She’s on the money’ podcaster, well-known author and former financial advisor to learn strategies to help you take charge
of your financial future.
Victoria is passionate about sharing her ideas on gaining financial freedom whether you’re stuck in debt, managing a mortgage or juggling family and lifestyle.
Those who attend the presentation in person will also have the opportunity to talk to representatives from relevant support organisations at the mini exhibition.
This event is part of the 2024 Health and Wellbeing series and brought to you by Maroondah City Council in partnership with EACH, Your Libraries, City of Boroondara, City of Kingston, City of Monash, Whitehorse City Council and Manningham Council.