The Andrews Labor Government is protecting Victoria's unique Bellarine Peninsula for decades to come thanks to an important new planning policy that will manage the area's future growth.
Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny released the final Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) for the Bellarine Peninsula that has been declared a 'distinctive area and landscape' under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
The policy locks in protected settlement boundaries for all townships on the Bellarine Peninsula, ensuring the landscapes and natural beauty of the Peninsula are protected for future generations.
The Bellarine Peninsula is highly valued as an environmental, historical, and nature-based tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year and connected by important transport infrastructure - including the Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry.
It is rich with heritage-listed and archaeological sites, including Queenscliff's maritime and military history, and The Bluff at Barwon Heads.
The SPP will help the Bellarine Peninsula achieve a more resilient and sustainable future by encouraging investment in recycled water infrastructure, soil quality management and other emerging technologies.
The SPP was prepared together with Traditional Owners, the Wadawurrung, the Borough of Queenscliffe, and the City of Greater Geelong with significant public consultation
As stated by Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny
"We worked closely with the community to ensure we're protecting the landscapes around the Bellarine Peninsula, and providing certainty for future housing, tourism and infrastructure investment in the region."
"Through our distinctive area and landscape legislation, we are providing the highest planning protection for Victoria's most iconic and environmentally sensitive areas."
As stated by Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
"The Bellarine Peninsula has some of Victoria's most captivating landscapes and beautiful native wildlife - we're making sure they are protected and enjoyed by visitors now and into the future."
As stated by Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
"The Bellarine Peninsula is a sustainable, diverse region, made up of unique townships and this policy will help protect its unique character and natural assets for decades to come."
