The Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) provides advice, information and recommendations to Council on matters in relation to environmental sustainability issues, initiatives, policies and strategies.

Recruitment open for the ESAC

The ESAC was founded in 2021, and today consists of two Councillors (Cr Kieran Simpson and Cr Ben Stennett), community representatives and Council staff. 

Role of the Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee 

• Provide a forum for environment and sustainability issues of interest and concern for Whitehorse to be reviewed and considered prior to Council decision making processes on all aspects of the environment.
• Advise on the preparation or review of key environmental sustainability strategies and policies.
• Advise on the design and delivery of specific environment and sustainability programs by Council.
• Advise on issues of environmental sustainability.
• Provide coordination, liaison and communication with other Council appointed community groups and key external stakeholders.
• Raise environment and sustainability issues of community concern to assist Council in determining the priority of activities to be undertaken.

Meeting Dates

• Wednesday 15 April 2026
• Wednesday 17 June 2026
• Wednesday 19 August 2026
• Wednesday 21 October 2026
• Wednesday 16 December 2026

Be part of the ESAC

Recruitment for The ESAC opens on 20 March 2026 and closes on 7 April 2026. Community representatives are nominated and selected based on the following membership criteria from the Terms of Reference ( PDF 203.56KB): 

• Willingness to undertake induction as a volunteer of Whitehorse City Council.
• Demonstrated understanding of diverse environmental and sustainability issues relevant to Whitehorse.
• Understanding of the role of local government in environmental and sustainability management.
• Be familiar with relevant Council plans and policies.
• Be part of a Community Group active in Whitehorse.
• Be reasonably available and able to commit to meet bi-monthly over the three-year period.
• Keep informed on current developments, issues and concerns in relation to urban environments.

The selection process will prioritise applications from nominees who live, work or study in Whitehorse. Youth representatives are encouraged to apply (over 18). Applications can be made through SEEK Volunteer.

For further information, please contact the Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee via email on esac@whitehorse.vic.gov.au or Cassie Lukies on 0434 874 443.