Planning Reforms

Mansfield Shire housing on Lake EildonDesired Outcome:

We call on the Victorian state government to repeal the Better Decisions Made Faster bill in favour of legislation that addresses the housing shortage without a Melbourne centric system that threatens regional Victoria's rural character and strips local government of planning power.

 

Why is this a priority?

The Better Decisions Made Faster bill stripped councils of power to protect communities from inappropriate development, and residents of their right to object - legislated without consulting councils or communities.

Our country identity is everything to Mansfield Shire and regional Victoria - the differences between city and country define our communities and draw visitors
seeking grass, trees and space over concrete.

The townhouses and cramped subdivisions these reforms allow risk making us indistinguishable from suburban Melbourne, decimating our tourism appeal and the economic impact tourism has on us and similar regional economies across Victoria.

We support the need for housing and will work with government on responsible growth, but ask the state work with us

 

Our Position: Five Principles for Fair Planning

We believe any changes to the planning system must respect our community and our landscape. Our advocacy to the State Government is built on five simple but essential principles.

  • Keep it Country: Ensure changes allow Council to protect our local vision, values, and country character.
  • Keep it Local: Ensure planning decisions for our community continue to be made locally.
  • Keep it Transparent: Ensure the community continues to be notified about planning proposals and has the right to provide input.
  • Keep it Fair: Ensure our community can participate in the planning process and has the right to have decisions reviewed.
  • Keep it Simple: Ensure any changes reduce complexity so everyone can engage in the system without undue cost.
  • Add Your Voice: Stand with Us for Mansfield

Your voice is powerful and essential. We are asking our community to send a clear message to the State Government that top-down planning doesn't work for Mansfield.