UPDATE - 15 December 2023

Housing and Settlement Strategy adopted at 12 December 2023 Council Meeting

A revised draft Housing and Settlement Strategy was presented for consideration at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 12 December 2023; the strategy was endorsed with minor changes to respond to specific matters raised by community members in relation to recognising environment values.

Adopted Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy

Revised Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy - Summary of Changes

East Gippsland Shire Housing & Settlement Strategy: Background Paper

Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy: Engagement Report

An Engagement Report was prepared which details feedback received as part of the consultation period and Council’s response to those items (see Section 7 of the Engagement Report).

Copies of agendas and minutes for Council meetings can be found on Council’s website. Council Minutes and Agendas

Next steps for the Housing and Settlement Strategy

Outlined below are the next steps toward the implementation of the key recommendations of the Housing and Settlement Strategy into the East Gippsland Planning Scheme.

1. Preparation of Planning Scheme Amendment documentation

2. Seek Council Resolution for Ministerial Authorisation to exhibit the Planning Scheme Amendment

3. Seek Ministerial Authorisation for exhibition of draft Planning Scheme Amendment

4. Exhibit draft Planning Scheme Amendment for public feedback

5. Consideration of feedback by Independent Planning Panel, if required.

6. Recommendations from Independent Planning Panel considered by Council

7. Council seeks final approval from Minister for Planning

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The revised Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy (HSS) will be presented at the 12 December 2023 Council Meeting for consideration.

The draft strategy underwent two rounds of consultation, with valuable community input shaping the document. Now that public feedback sessions have concluded, the revised document is available for community information before Council votes on the strategy.

The draft HSS establishes a land-use planning policy framework to guide the future development of settlements and the design of new housing across East Gippsland. The strategy aims to meet the evolving needs of our community, ensure high-risk locations area avoided, and foster a more sustainable housing system in the shire.

Mayor Cr Tom Crook has emphasised the need for a guiding document on housing and settlements.
"As we look ahead to accommodating 8,250 new dwellings by 2041, this strategy emphasises responsible growth, affordability and environmental stewardship. It’s about building a future that preserves our character and helps to ensure a home for everyone."

The draft HSS addresses challenges in equitable housing access by aiming to ensure diverse, affordable and sustainable housing options. The strategy supports infill development in established areas for efficient land use and discourages excessive reliance on greenfield land. It encourages diverse housing types and better provision for different needs and lifestyles.

While Council does not directly provide housing, the Housing and Settlement Strategy defines Council’s role in facilitating access to these diverse and affordable housing opportunities for the community.

The complete draft Housing and Settlement Strategy is available on Council’s website. If the proposal is supported by Council, the public will have a further opportunity to provide feedback for independent review during the formal Planning Scheme Amendment process.

Revised Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy - December 2023

Revised Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy - Summary of Changes

East Gippsland Shire Housing & Settlement Strategy: Background Paper

Draft Housing and Settlement Strategy: Engagement Report

UPDATE - 23 August 2023

We are continuing to review submissions and survey responses; these will be used to refine the draft Housing and Settlement Strategy.

A further update on the next steps for the draft Housing and Settlement Strategy will be provided in the coming months.

UPDATE - 02 June 2023

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Photo credit - Elders Real Estate, Bairnsdale