In a statement on Thursday, Cr Massey acknowledged the impact coronavirus was having on the municipality.

The first case of a person testing positive to coronavirus occurred in Yarriambiack Shire on Sunday.

"We understand that residents have bigger challenges they are facing right now. Council will continue to work with the Local Government industry as well as state and federal governments to identify the best way to assist our community through this period and through the recovery phase," Cr Massey said.

"Council may not get it right all the time. We are faced with a scenario that is constantly changing and we are beholden to state and federal government directives. What I can say is that Council will use all of its resources to act for and advocate on behalf of our community through this period."

Earlier this week, Ratepayers Victoria called for all 79 Victorian municipalities to follow the lead of Tasmania's Devonport City Council and suspend all parking fees.

It also called on councils to suspend rates & special levy charges immediately, stop all project spending & defer all non-essential projects, suspend fees for parking infringements in retail and residential areas and enforce executive salary cuts of at least 25 per cent among other measures.

The Mail-Times has contacted Horsham Rural City Council and Hindmarsh Shire Council for comment regarding whether it will consider such measures.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison declined to comment.

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