The South Melbourne Market Strategic Plan 2026-30 sets out a roadmap for the Market over the next five years. It will ensure the market upholds its strong reputation, continues to meet community needs and supports its traders to thrive. Everyone’s input is important—whether you’re a trader, worker, shopper, visitor, local resident, or local business.

What can you influence about this project?

We are asking for your feedback on the Market’s draft ‘vision’, ‘purpose’, and ‘strategic priorities’, as well as your ideas for the Market – including things like the products and services you would like to see offered.

Here are some definitions you might find helpful when giving your feedback:

• Vision: a clear statement about what the Market aims to become in the future — its long-term ambition or aspiration. The vision reflects the values, spirit, and purpose of the Market, and helps guide decisions and planning over time.

• Purpose: a statement that explains why the Market exists — its core role or reason for being, especially in serving the community.

• Strategic priorities: the key areas of focus that will help bring the Market’s vision and purpose to life.

What aren’t we asking about?

At this stage we are not seeking input on:

• The timeline to develop and deliver the new Strategic Plan

• The program of upcoming capital works (Project Connect) being delivered in the next five years (this formed part of the community consultation held in 2023)

What is the South Melbourne Market Strategic Plan?

This is a clear, practical roadmap that outlines where the Market wants to go, why it matters, and how it’s going to get there in 2026-30. The past Strategic Plan ends in 2025, so it’s time for a new one.

What happens to the information I provide?

Information you provide will be used to develop the South Melbourne Market Strategic Plan for the period of 2026-30.

What are other recent projects at the South Melbourne Market?

There are always lots of changes and improvements happening at the Market, some of which you might have provided feedback on in the past. This includes:

Project Connect

Over the next few years, we will be revitalising the South Melbourne Market asset to improve customer and trader experience, visitor safety and connection to our local community.

Read more about Project Connect.