Tuesday, 17 February 2026

 Sonya KILKENNY (Carrum – Attorney-General, Minister for Planning) (14:09): I am delighted to say the Allan Labor government is getting on with the job of building more homes for Victorians and building stronger, safer communities in the process. Last week we released draft maps for the next 23 train and tram zone activity centres across Melbourne for community consultation and feedback. This is all about delivering more homes close to jobs, schools, shops, trains and trams, because good planning is all about community connection – connection to work, connection to services and connection to opportunity. When more Victorians can live near transport and activity centres, communities are more vibrant, local businesses are stronger and streets are safer. These zones will unlock more townhouses, more well-designed apartments and more family homes, giving Victorians more choice.

Last sitting week we backed builders, not blockers, passing landmark legislation and landmark planning reforms to speed up approvals and get homes built faster, because Victorians deserve nothing less. We are cutting red tape and taking on the status quo to deliver homes in the right places, especially for young Victorians. Meanwhile, those opposite are in complete disarray. Last week the Liberal member for Warrandyte said planning policy must support high-density apartments. Hours later –

Members interjecting.

The SPEAKER: I can pre-empt the point of order, Manager of Opposition Business. I ask the Minister for Planning not to attack the opposition in her ministers statement.

Sonya KILKENNY: It is compare and contrast, because only hours later their own member for Malvern Amelia Hamer said high-density should not be in our suburbs.

Members interjecting.

The SPEAKER: The Minister for Planning will resume her seat. I will not call the Minister for Planning to continue her ministers statement.