More than 4,300 Victorians have thrown their support behind a petition tabled in Parliament by The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien calling on the Allan Labor Government to review rigid coastal flood planning controls.
The petition reflects widespread community concern and urges the State Government to adopt a more flexible and balanced approach to planning rules that require new developments to account for a projected 0.8 m sea level rise by 2100.
“The changes brought in have raised concerns among landowners in places like Loch Sport, Golden Beach, Port Albert and McLoughlins Beach about whether they will be able to build homes on their land,” Mr O’Brien said.
“This is happening even in cases where the land itself is safe from flooding but nearby access roads are considered at possible risk based on future flood projections.
“This petition is a clear message from local communities and landowners that they are fed up with the uncertainty and how these rules are being applied.”
Residents and landowners have raised alarm about the potential impact of the policy, especially whether they will be able to build in these communities.
Mr O’Brien said the petition highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and local input into how flood overlays are applied.
“These overlays have raised serious concerns in the communities and landowners are seeking clarity,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Wellington Shire has indicated that it is continuing to approve permits for single dwellings but we need some clarity from the state government on what the situation will be going forward.
“We need flood planning that protects people without paralysing communities. This petition shows that landowners and local residents are not asking for risk to be ignored, they are asking for fairness and clarity.”
Mr O’Brien said he will continue pressing the Allan Labor Government to respond to the concerns of Gippsland South communities and provide clarity for affected landholders.