Update: Disallowance Vote
The Disallowance Vote is scheduled for this Wednesday, 14 May.
There’s still time to email Victorian crossbenchers and urge them to vote ‘Yes’ on the Disallowance Motion and stand up for transparent, democratic planning.
Key points to communicate:
The crossbench plays a vital role in holding the Government accountable, especially when critical decisions are being rushed or lack proper scrutiny.
Community concern has been strong enough (among both residents and councils) to prompt an Inquiry, citing issues like poor consultation, lack of transparency, and negative planning outcomes.
The Inquiry raised serious questions about the origin and justification of these reforms. There was insufficient evidence to support the strategic direction taken or the Minister’s use of power to enforce VPP changes (only three reference documents were submitted on notice, with no written advice to the Minister).
The argument that increasing supply will lower prices was based on theory, not evidence, citing other cities' experiences without being able to prove similar outcomes for Melbourne. These reforms are built on hope, not certainty that market forces alone will deliver well-located, affordable housing.
This is not a blanket rejection of ResCode reforms or taller buildings in core areas. Instead, it’s a call for smarter density with appropriate neighbourhood heights, better design standards, stronger community outcomes, infrastructure investment, open space, climate and environment considerations, and protection of tree canopy.
There is time to do this properly - as townhouses are already permitted in residential zones, apartment construction is currently stagnant, and Councils believe short-term housing supply will not be impacted by a pause.
Key findings from SAC Reports 1 & 2:
The HCT (Housing and Consolidation Typologies) Zone should not be applied to Activity Centres at this time.
Rezoning is not necessary - existing planning tools can deliver housing more effectively and appropriately.
Catchment Areas should be redrawn including the removal of heritage and neighbourhood character overlays from all Catchment Areas.
In summary, the proposed planning amendments are rushed and poorly conceived. If implemented, they risk irreparable damage to Melbourne and ultimately Victoria by enabling widespread, low-quality development that ignores local context and community needs.
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