Published on Thursday, 17 September 2026 at 11:30:00 AM
The Shire is aware of community discussion regarding the future of the medical centre premises at 41 Bentley Street (Donnybrook Medical Centre) and would like to clarify the matter currently before Council.
The Shire has a positive and constructive relationship with Donnybrook Medical Centre, and we appreciate their ongoing contribution to local healthcare services and community wellbeing. The Shire remains committed to working collaboratively with the tenant and other key stakeholders to ensure informed and sustainable outcomes for the site and broader health precinct.
The Short Version
The matter before Council is not about whether community health services will continue at 41 Bentley Street. It’s about the lease arrangements with the Donnybrook Medical Centre, as their current lease has expired and alternative short-term arrangements have been requested by the lessee.
Our goal is to maintain continuity now, and plan for the future together. Council is now considering the most appropriate way forward while maintaining continuity of community services.
No decision regarding the lease has been made yet. This decision will be before Council at the Ordinary Council Meeting (OCM) on 23 September 2026. Community members are encouraged to refer to the Council agenda for complete information.
View Council Meeting information & documents
The current situation
Recently, the current lessee was invited to discuss their future intentions for the site. During that discussion, the lessee advised that they were exploring alternative locations to expand their business, did not wish to pursue a proposed purchase of the site, and to this aim requested a short-term lease rather than Council’s preferred five year lease extension.
Following receipt of confirmation in writing from the lessee of the above verbal advice previously provided to Council, the report for the upcoming OCM was prepared. Shire officers have identified several lease renewal options, which are being presented to Council for consideration (refer to the report for the upcoming OCM).
Subsequently to the agenda briefing item being published publicly, Council now understands that the lessee’s position may have changed. The lessee has been invited to meet with the Shire Preident and CEO to gain a further understanding of their position with regard to the lease. The lessee has also been invited to attend next week’s Council meeting to discuss the lease matter further.
Clarification – more context
What is 41 Bentley Street?
41 Bentley Street is a Shire-owned building located on Crown land. The property forms part of the broader health and aged care precinct, and is currently where several medical practices operate – this includes the Donnybrook Medical Centre.
What is Council considering?
The current lease with the Donnybrook Medical Centre has reached the end of its term (expired). The lessee has requested an alternative leasing arrangement, so Council is now considering the most appropriate way forward while maintaining continuity of community services.
Is Council closing the medical centre?
No. The Executive Recommendation before Council is intended to maintain occupancy of the building and support continuity of the medical centre as an essential community service, while future opportunities are explored by the Donnybrook Medical Centre and the Shire respectively.
Is Council selling the property?
No. In order to sell the property, the Shire would first have to purchase the land as while the building is owned by Council, the land is not. This option was investigated previously, however the Donnybrook Medical Centre has advised it no longer wishes to pursue acquisition of the property, and therefore no sale is proposed.
Be Informed
Back to All News