Protecting Victoria’s Ports

As Victoria prepares for a significant expansion in port capacity going forward, the state government has moved to implement new planning controls to secure the ongoing productivity of the ports and their surrounding environment.

In the latest development, planning minister Mathew Guy has accepted a key recommendation contained in report of the Ports and Environs Advisory Committeeto implement a Port Zone which will specifically recognise the interests of the ports and their significance to the state.

A new Ministerial Direction will also be introduced to prevent the encroachment of sensitive land uses such as dwellings and hospitals near the ports.

In a statement, Guy says planning controls will better protect both the operation and the expansion of the ports while protecting the amenities of residents and workers in areas proximate to the ports.

Victoria’s ports have experienced major growth due to significant increases in internationaltrade and domestic economic growth over recent years. The government has already announced a $1.2 billion expansion of the Port of Melbourne and moved to fast track the development of the Port of Hastings.