Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead has been elected as the regional board director for the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), representing Gippsland.

The MAV is Victoria's peak body for local government, advocating for councils and supporting them in delivering essential services to their communities. 

As regional board director, Cr Halstead said she would play a key role in ensuring the priorities of Gippsland councils were represented at the state level.

She said she would collaborate with board members, advocate for policy changes, and work to address key regional challenges such as coastal protection, infrastructure development, economic growth, and community well-being.

 "Local government plays a vital role in shaping the future of our regional townships, and I look forward to working with MAV and my fellow councillors to ensure regional voices are heard and supported," she said.

"This appointment reinforces Bass Coast Shire Council's proactive leadership in the local government sector."

Cr Halstead also serves as OneGippsland deputy chair, the region's peak advocacy body.