The Andrews Labor Government has released its review into native vegetation clearing regulations, including proposed changes, fulfilling an election commitment.
Under the proposal, Victorians seeking permission to clear native vegetation would be able to provide additional information about their property that leads to a more accurate assessment and potentially cost savings.
Other proposed changes include:
- placing a greater emphasis on protecting native vegetation by avoiding its removal where possible
- making offsetting obligations for the removal of scattered trees fairer by acknowledging the habitat values of large trees and reducing the offset requirements for small trees
- increased monitoring and reporting on native vegetation losses and offsets
These regulations provide for no net loss of native vegetation, part of the overall objective of a net gain for native vegetation.
Improvements will be delivered through changes to the relevant clauses of the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and all Victorian planning schemes.
The review involved extensive consultation, including a stakeholder reference group that provided valuable advice on the issues and improvements considered in the review.
The Victorian community is invited to comment on the proposed changes. For more information visit Engage Victoria:
Consultation closes at 5pm on Sunday 5 February 2017.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“The review of native vegetation clearing regulations was prompted by community concerns, and we want to keep hearing from Victorians about these proposed changes.”
“Victoria’s native vegetation clearing regulations should protect our sensitive native vegetation without placing an unnecessary burden on landholders.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020