A new Parliamentary Act to help manage and preserve Victoria’s unique coastal areas is being established by the Victorian Government, with feedback being sought.

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the Government was calling for submissions on the Marine and Coastal Act Consultation Paper. The new Act will replace the Coastal Management Act 1995.

“East Gippsland is home to some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Victoria and I am sure there are lots of local residents who would be interested in passing their knowledge on provide their feedback on what’s been added to this consultation paper,” he said.

Mr Bull said the Government had identified seven drivers for change in the current marine and coastal management system, which are:

• Clearer governance and institutional arrangements;

• Strengthening marine management;

• Integrating planning systems;

• Adapting to climate change;

• Sustainable resources;

• Improving knowledge; and

• Involving the community.

“One huge area of the reforms will be based around the governance of these coastal areas. It has been stated in the consultation paper that the roles and responsibilities of entities within the system are often unclear, which has led to ineffective planning and management,” Mr Bull said.

“There are a number of proposals, such as the replacement of the Victorian Coastal Council with a Marine and Coastal Council, the phasing out of regional coastal boards, along with strengthening the roles of coastal catchment management authorities.

 “The role of committees of management, such as local councils and Gippsland Ports, is also likely to change under the new Act.

“What we need to do is make sure that this Act does not disadvantage our region in any way, make things more difficult with red tape or impose restrictions on our way of life or pastimes,” Mr Bull said.

Mr Bull said more information was available by visiting www.haveyoursay.delwp.vic.gov.au and accessing the consultation paper. Submissions, to be made by email or mail, will close on Sunday, October 23.

Tuesday, September 6, 2016