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.

Community

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


  • 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%;
  • New small businesses are eligible for a 50% rate remission during their first 12 months of operation.
New Business Investment Assistance Policy

Latest News

John Marik
18 August 2026

Dorset Council Announces Leadership Transition

Dorset Council advises that General Manager John Marik will conclude his tenure with Council in mid-November 2026, following his decision to step down from the role after more than nine years of service to the organisation and community.
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Council Office External
18 August 2026

Council Meeting Briefing of Decisions | 17 August 2026

Below is a briefing of decisions made at last nights Council Meeting. For further information on any of these items, please contact Mayor Rhys Beattie (0409 921 683) or General Manager, Mr John Marik (03 6352 6500).
Read more

Community Grants Now Open
11 August 2026

2026/27 Community Grants Program | NOW OPEN

Dorset Council is inviting community groups and organisations to apply for funding through its 2026/27 Community Grants Program.
Read more