The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to fix the development of Australia’s largest urban renewal precinct at Fishermans Bend after it was left in a shambolic mess by Matthew Guy and the former Liberal Government.
The Labor Government today announced a dedicated Fishermans Bend Development Board to ensure the project remains on track and adheres to the highest levels of governance.
The Board will play a critical role in implementing the Fishermans Bend Framework, guiding the transformation of the precinct into a new community on the doorstep of the city with 80,000 residents and 80,000 jobs.
The Board will be chaired by Meredith Sussex AM – an expert on city planning and the chair of the former Fishermans Bend Ministerial Advisory Committee.
She is joined by five experts in planning, industry, finance and transport:
- Martyn Myer AO
- Susan Oliver
- Cheryl Batago
- Gary Liddle
- Janet Bolitho
When Matthew Guy was Minister for Planning, his overnight rezoning of swathes of inner city land meant a lucky few struck it rich as their property prices soared.
Mr Guy ignored the need for parks, schools, healthcare services or community hubs – prompting the independent Advisory Committee to label his rash decision “unprecedented in the developed world in the 21st century.”
The Board will lead engagement with the community and advise on precinct plans and major decisions for Fishermans Bend to ensure that the interests of the community continue to be at the forefront of development.
The role of local government is critical in the successful development of Fishermans Bend. A Mayors’ Forum will be established with the Mayors of the City of Melbourne and City of Port Phillip and the Chair of the Development Board CEO, Meredith Sussex, to keep the councils up to date and engaged.
Quote attributable to Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings
“The Fishermans Bend Development Board will bring together some of the best minds in the industry, to guide the development of this important precinct, so it can fulfil its potential as a great place to live, work and do business.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“The community is relying on us to get Fishermans Bend right, for the future growth and prosperity of Melbourne – this is in stark contrast to Matthew Guy, who wanted to make Fisherman’s Bend a concrete jungle of high rises.”
Quote attributable to Member for Albert Park Martin Foley
“Whether it’s delivering the needed schools, transport and open spaces, or ensuring the very best in governance, we’ve ended Matthew Guy’s development free for all and are getting on with fixing his mess.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020