Overview

Victoria’s coast contributes to the state through port and trade activity, and tourism and related services. There are around 70 million recreational visits across some 2000km of coastline each year.

A number of government and non-government stakeholders manage coastal assets, pressures and issues. The planning system helps guide sustainable development within coastal settlements and manage development within non-urban areas.

The Victorian government supports the development of detailed coastal hazard mapping and risk assessments in preparation for storm surges and sea level rise. The department supports coastal adaptation planning by working with stakeholders to implement the best available coastal hazard information, including through planning schemes and related coastal management processes.

Planning guidance

Ministerial Direction No. 13 and Planning Practice Note 53 help with planning and guide responsible authorities:

For further information on how Catchment Management Authorities and Melbourne Water provide advice to responsible authorities on development proposals refer to:

Read the fact sheet on managing coastal hazards and the coastal impacts of climate change:

Managing Coastal Hazards and the Coastal Impacts of Climate Change Fact Sheet (PDF, 907.8 KB) or (DOC, 43.5 KB)

Other coastal planning initiatives

Information about other coastal planning strategies and initiatives:

Coasts and Marine
Led by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Coasts and Marine Management, Strategies, Programs and Grants aim to reduce the impact of coastal hazards and better manage the Government's duty of care and liability for coastal Crown land.