02/06/2020
Safeguarding the resources our community needs
The Victorian Government is seeking feedback on proposed planning provisions to protect access to the quarry resources the state to build new homes and infrastructure in coming years.
The Victorian Government is seeking feedback on proposed planning provisions to protect access to the quarry resources the state to build new homes and infrastructure in coming years.
Our population is growing, driving demand for large amounts of building raw materials. Much of the state’s yet to be extracted rock and sand lies close to Melbourne, meaning it could be built over or access to it limited by new housing and development.
Access to future quarry materials is being compromised by new construction on the fringes of Melbourne and some rural areas, which is actually creating the demand for those resources.
In 2018, the Victorian Government launched its first Extractives Resources Strategy, Helping Victoria Grow, to ensure the construction industry can continue to access the raw materials it needs to improve and grow our cities, suburbs and towns.
If rock, sand and gravel cannot be accessed near to building projects, infrastructure and housing costs greatly increase for the community and construction sector.
The Strategic Extractive Resource Areas pilot project aims to help get the right balance so communities can develop but important sand, rock and gravel is not built over or too near to.
Two local government areas, Wyndham and South Gippsland, will pilot the proposed planning changes. Residents in these areas can learn more about the project and have their say before 24 July 2020 via Engage Victoria at engage.vic.gov.au/sera-pilot-project.
Irrespective of changes resulting from this consultation, any new quarry development will continue to need a planning permit and quarry licence. The potential outcome could see better identification of potential resources so they are considered in assessing local development and buffer zones.
The quarry sector continues to grow in Victoria, it employs thousands of people in a wide variety of roles. Well-paid careers are on offer across a range of disciplines to manage the lifecycle of quarry developments including geoscience, planning, commercial and environmental aspects.
In the long-term once quarries are at the end of their life, they are rehabilitated and can become community assets. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne, Niddrie’s Valley Lake, and Newport Lakes are former quarries.
The resources area of the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions is working closely with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to deliver this work.
Quotes from DJPR’s Head of Resources John Krbaleski:
“Approvals for new or expanding quarries will remain robust with plenty of community input.”
“If you live in the Wyndham or South Gippsland areas, learn about proposed changes to planning controls relating to potential quarry resources via the Engage Victoria website and have your say.”
Quotes from DELWP’s Executive Director of Planning Implementation Matt Vincent:
“Clear planning controls will ensure we have the resources needed to continue delivering affordable housing, roads and infrastructure across Victoria, while managing the impact on local communities.”
Contact: Mark Farrugia
Phone: (03) 8392 6913