The Andrews Labor Government will break the deadlock that has delayed and hindered the major projects that Geelong needs.
Premier Daniel Andrews today announced the creation of the Geelong Authority, which will push ahead with major planning decisions, creating jobs and driving growth in Geelong.
The Authority – a key Labor Government election commitment – will be headed by a Board of Directors. The members of the Board will be local leaders in business, health and the Geelong community.
The Authority’s inaugural Chair will be Peter Dorling, who is Business Manager at Avalon Airport and has extensive local industry experience. Other Board nominees include:
- Mr Robert Costa – Chairman of Costa Group Holdings and GRIIF
- Ms Janet Dore – Outgoing CEO of the TAC
- Ms Roz Hansen – Member of the Central Geelong Taskforce
- Ms Jill Smith – General Manager of GPAC
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne will be responsible for planning decisions in the CBD and the Moolap waterfront precinct where projects cover more than 5000 square metres and will act on the advice of the Board.
This will streamline planning decisions and secure real action for the Geelong community on major projects. Places Victoria will deliver approved projects on behalf of the Authority.
The Labor Government is kick-starting the Authority with $500,000 in start-up funds and $3 million to support early on the ground works, which will get projects moving.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Geelong needs more than words and plans, it needs action. Traders are losing patience, locals are losing faith, and Geelong is losing time.”
“The Authority will get the right people in the right place to make the right decisions.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“More of the same will mean more of the planning deadlocks that have seen Geelong not fulfil its great potential."
“The Authority will drive growth and create jobs to get Geelong moving.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“Action is long overdue. This will clean up Geelong’s CBD and attract the investment we need to get moving.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville
“This plan will break the development deadlock in Geelong and build the local jobs and industries of the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020