The Bellarine Peninsula is known for its coastal setting, rural hinterland and artisan producers. Given its proximity to both Geelong and Melbourne, it has long been a place to live and visit. With its excellent beaches and historic towns, it is a popular tourist destination.
Because of this, the area is now under significant pressure from urban development. Alongside the growing threat of climate change risks, the Bellarine Peninsula needs protection.
The Bellarine Peninsula has been declared a ‘distinctive area and landscape’. This declaration offers protection for the environment, landscapes, cultural heritage and natural resources of the area, while providing certainty for investment.
Following extensive community feedback, a Statement of Planning Policy has been endorsed by all responsible public entities and ministers responsible for those entities, and approved by the Governor in Council. It is operational and forms part of the Victoria Planning Provisions that guide land use and development decision-making in Victoria.
The Statement of Planning Policy was prepared in collaboration with the Borough of Queenscliffe, the City of Greater Geelong, the Wadawurrung, and relevant government agencies and authorities. It includes a vision and integrated plan to guide land use, management and development within the Bellarine Peninsula for the next 50 years.
The Greater Geelong and Queenscliffe planning schemes will now be amended to give effect to the policy.
For more information and to view a copy of the Bellarine Peninsula Statement of Planning Policy, please visit:
Page last updated: 18/12/24