Ambitious new work program for the VPA

Planning for change in established Melbourne and the regions and driving the 100,000 lots program are all key facets of the VPA’s 2017-18 Statement Of Expectations (PDF).

The scope of the VPA’s work plan has now expanded and includes responsibility for transforming many urban renewal sites in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, recently released his annual directive to the VPA, updating the authority’s work program.

The new statement accounts for key planning policies that will shape Victoria’s future, including Homes for Victorians and Plan Melbourne 2017-2050.

One key feature of this year’s statement includes a greater focus on planning for strategic development sites – areas in inner and middle-ring Melbourne identified for urban renewal.

Many of these sites are complex areas that have a long and proud history, with surrounding communities that have a significant interest in their success.

The Minister has directed the VPA to help plan for these areas due to the authority’s strong track record of working with many stakeholders to plan great places for current and future Victorians.

The VPA’s role in planning for strategic sites will vary on a case-by-case basis, with the VPA leading some projects and providing advice and expertise on others.

In regards to greenfields planning, the Minister has directed the VPA to create precinct structure plans for 17 new communities in Melbourne’s growth areas. This program, announced earlier this year, will result in enough zoned land for an additional 100,000 housing lots.

The VPA will also have a greater emphasis on assisting in the regions, working on projects in Shepparton, Wodonga and Bendigo. The innovative Streamlining for Growth Program is continuing, which provides grants to councils for projects that result in new housing, jobs and infrastructure.

Of the program’s $4 million annual budget, half has been allocated to regional councils, to help plan for the growth of Victoria’s diverse regional cities and towns.

Quotes attributable to VPA chief executive, Stuart Moseley:

“This annual statement has been updated to reflect key policies that are shaping Victoria’s future, including Homes for Victorians and Plan Melbourne 2017 – 2050.”

“We thank the Minister for this direction and will now set about delivering on this ambitious work program.”