The Victorian Government has outlined new planning controls for the state’s major ports in a bid to ensure future productivity in the sector.

 

The Ports and Environs Advisory Committee released the new set of planning controls for the ports of Melbourne, Hastings, Geelong and Portland.

 

State Planning Minister Matthew Guy welcomed the report, saying that a robust ports planning framework is paramount to the future economic growth of the state.

 

Mr Guy accepted the key recommendation from the Committee for a formation of a Port Zone, which will specifically recognise the interests of the port and the port’s significance to Victoria’s economy.

 

The State Government also accepted the recommendation that a new Ministerial Direction be introduced to prevent the encroachment of sensitive land uses, such as dwellings and hospitals, near ports.

 

The Department of Planning and Community Development will work with Port of Melbourne Corporation to develop further planning measures to account for the recently announced expansion of Webb Dock, which was not considered as part of the Advisory Committee's scope.

 

The Ports and Environs Advisory Committee Report and Ministerial Direction 14 will be made available at:www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/panelsandcommittees