Moyne planning scheme review

Published on 24 September 2026

Moyne Shire Councillors have endorsed the Moyne Planning Scheme Review 2026, a comprehensive independent assessment that confirms the planning scheme is performing well while identifying opportunities to strengthen planning policy and support future growth across the shire.

As required under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, councils must review their planning schemes every four years. The review was undertaken by Schemology and Cummins Planning, with funding support from the Department of Transport and Planning.

The review found that the Moyne Planning Scheme provides a robust strategic and statutory framework for managing land use and development and acknowledged Council’s work on key projects including the Port Fairy Coastal and Structure Plan, Rural Housing and Settlement Strategy, and Koroit Structure Plan.

It also recognised Council’s leadership in addressing coastal inundation risks and highlighted the need for ongoing land use and settlement planning through the Moyne Futures Blueprint – Land Use Strategy.

Council will now seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare and exhibit a planning scheme amendment to implement the review’s recommendations. These updates are largely policy-neutral and administrative in nature, ensuring the planning scheme remains current, consistent and aligned with recent strategic planning work and Council priorities.

Mayor Cr Jordan Lockett said the review provided a valuable roadmap for the future of planning in Moyne.

“This review confirms that our planning scheme is serving the community well while identifying practical improvements that will help ensure it remains current and effective,” Cr Lockett said.

“It recognises the significant work Council has undertaken in areas such as housing, coastal planning and sustainable economic development, and provides a clear direction for future strategic planning across the shire.

“Importantly, the next stage will include public exhibition of the proposed planning scheme amendment, giving our communities and stakeholders the opportunity to have their say on the recommended changes.”

Any amendment arising from the review will be publicly exhibited, with community members and stakeholders invited to provide feedback through a formal submissions process.

We aim to constantly improve our planning processes while continuing to meet state guidelines and support good planning outcomes for our communities.