East Gippsland Shire Council has asked the Victorian Government to make sure that its new Plan for Victoria recognises the strengths of the East Gippsland region.

Council has endorsed a submission to the government that highlights East Gippsland’s opportunities and asks for reforms that would better support the growth and prosperity of regional Victoria.

The Government announced in 2023 that it would review the Plan for Melbourne and expand it to cover the state. It has since asked for input to a new Plan for Victoria.

Council has made a case for change to support regional Victoria communities, including recognising the differences between regional and metropolitan areas, the need for reform of the planning system, and investment in regional infrastructure and services.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Tom Crook said: “We have made a bold submission to the Victorian Government’s Plan for Victoria, asking them to recognise the strengths that regional Victoria and East Gippsland has to offer. Additionally, we have asked for investment in our infrastructure and services, so that we can play our part in the sustainable growth of the state.”

“The Government’s plan needs to recognise and embrace diversity across Victoria’s communities; a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work,” Cr Crook said.  

“The Government also needs to work in a collaborative manner with local governments and local communities, not only to capture our aspirations for the future, but to turn them into reality,” he added.

Council’s submission details the social, environmental and economic opportunities that East Gippsland provides. It includes a call for infrastructure funding, social housing, better management of public land, improved roads and public transport, and planning system reforms that would streamline making land available for housing.

Council has also asked the Government to ensure that all Victorians have an opportunity to comment on a draft plan when it is prepared.

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