Posted 19/4/06 See Demonstration Flyer
MRRA Media Release
“Planning Backlash”
Demonstration at Parliament House, 3rd May, 1pm
Macedon Ranges Residents’ Association has joined with community and resident groups in other parts of Victoria to form a State-wide movement called “Planning Backlash” to send the message to the State government it has to change the way planning works in Victoria.
Shared concerns include: the Victorian planning system favours developers and shuts out ordinary people; it allows development to damage things people value; and because it is open to wide interpretation, the system lacks accountability and certainty.
A “Planning Backlash” working committee has been formed, with this demonstration the first in a series of actions to be taken leading up to the November State election.
Changes wanted include putting ‘people’ back into planning, better protection for what they value, changing Melbourne 2030, changing the Planning and Environment Act and planning schemes to put more ‘must’ and ‘must not’ at local level so local people have more say in their area, better protection for our rural land, environment and landscapes, and a lot more accountability at all levels - Victoria needs an ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) as exists in NSW.
MRRA Secretary Christine Pruneau said, “In Macedon Ranges, the Bracks government stubbornly refuses to deliver its 8 year old promise to protect this environmentally sensitive area. The government’s neglect and ‘development is good’ mentality has left Macedon Ranges at the mercy of speculators and damaging development. Things that can’t be replaced – such as drinking water catchments – are being lost to future generations.
There’s nothing environmentally or socially sustainable about what’s happening in Victoria. Planning is still driven by the ‘anything goes’ philosophy introduced by the Kennett government. The system seems to advantage the few, and the Bracks government’s attitude of development at any cost is a price many Victorians are now refusing to pay.
The government may think there’s nothing wrong but it’s not listening to what ordinary people across Victoria are saying. “Not happy, Mr. Bracks” doesn’t capture the depth of anger. People have had enough! The government is now being told to change the system. If the people of Victoria can’t change the government’s mind, they will have to consider changing the government.”
19th April, 2006