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The Victorian Coalition Government has provided Coastal Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) with updated planning guidelines so appropriate development can continue in Victoria's seaside communities.
Water Minister Peter Walsh said the Coalition Government was taking a realistic approach so development could continue while managing risks from future sea level rises.
“The updated guidelines will help local decision makers manage risks from future sea level rise and allow appropriate and sensible development in coastal towns,” Mr Walsh said.
“The Coalition Government recognises that local information is needed to make decisions on new development and that local authorities are best placed to make these decisions affecting their communities.
“Local councils, together with advice from CMAs, hold the right skills and local knowledge to make decisions regarding development that is appropriate for local conditions.
“The updated guidelines will help business, communities, local government and industry make decisions to manage their own risk and develop communities appropriately.”
The guidelines follow on from Planning Minister Matthew Guy’s commitment earlier this month to deliver common sense and certainty to coastal planning.
Mr Walsh said the Coalition Government’s policy enabled communities to continue to develop along Victoria’s coastline in a sensible manner.
The Coalition Government is in the process of updating Victoria’s planning systems to bring the new policy into effect.
The guidelines do not apply to Melbourne Water which will continue with current practice.