Wednesday, 18 June 2025

Ministers statements: housing

Sonya KILKENNY (Carrum – Attorney-General, Minister for Planning) (14:14): I rise to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is pushing forward with bold reforms to build more homes for Victorians. On this side of the house we understand the scale of the housing challenge and we know what needs to be done – not blocking homes, not defending the status quo. We are taking decisive action to reform our planning system to build more homes because Victorians, especially younger Victorians, are counting on us.

We are unlocking more capacity for homes in the right places, near jobs, transport and services. We are making it easier to build duplexes, townhouses, low-rise apartments and mixed-use developments in established suburbs. We are cutting red tape and speeding up approvals. Our 10-year greenfields plan lays out Victoria’s longest ever pipeline of new land for new homes with backyards fit for growing families. The development facilitation program will continue to fast-track quality projects that bring investment, create jobs and deliver the homes we need. We are reviewing and rewriting the Planning and Environment Act 1987, building a modern, fit-for-purpose system that puts people, not process, at its heart. We are working with councils and communities, creating clear, consistent planning rules that prioritise affordability, livability and sustainability.

The Allan Labor government knows that more homes means more opportunity and more homes means a better future. While we plan for more homes, those opposite are planning another Matthew Guy reboot, and while we respect heritage protections, it looks like those opposite have heritage-listed the member for Bulleen, preserving him for another tilt at the leadership.