Weekly wrap: Policy & advocacy update

19 Jun 2020

, News

Advocacy in action: Taskforce considering moratorium on taxes and charges. 

The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne has written to UDIA Victoria, advising that he’s asked the Building Victoria’s Recovery Taskforce (BVRT) to seriously consider our proposal to place a moratorium on new residential development charges and policy changes during the coronavirus situation, as well as our proposed assessment criteria for fast tracking shovel-ready projects.

The BVRT is currently preparing its advice to State Government on a pathway forward to Victoria’s road to recovery from COVID-19.

We are encouraged by Minister Wynne’s letter advising the BVRT is considering our advice. We will continue to advocate for these proposals in communication with the Minister and the BVRT directly. 

Roadmap to Recovery update.

UDIA Victoria is again meeting with the Minister for Planning Minister Wynne, and the Treasurer Tim Pallas, to discuss the role of the urban development industry and the recommendations we’ve put forward in the UDIA Victoria Roadmap to Recovery. 

We will also seek:

  • An extension to the formal timeframe for the BVRT, which is due to finish 30 June 2020; and 
  • A formalisation of the industry engagement approach that has been established by the BVRT through UDIA Victoria’s role on the Steering Committee, and our members being represented on the Industry Working Groups.

UDIA Victoria Roadmap to Recovery: Calling on State Government to make Victoria the ‘Homeowner State’.  

  • IMMEDIATELY boost home buyer purchasing power. 
     
  • Lock in 300,000 Victorian jobs. 
     
  • Unlock greenfield development. 
     
  • Supercharge urban renewal. 
     
  • Welcome to Victoria.

Policy.

UDIA Victoria is working on a number of submissions and key issues, including but not limited to:

  • Affordable housing submissions to multiple local governments;
  • Strategic Development Areas Infrastructure Contribution Plan system;
  • Distinctive Areas and Landscapes program;
  • Essential Services Commission Review of electricity connections to new developments;
  • Building System Review with the Commissioner for Better Regulation;
  • Environment Protection Act Review; and
  • State taxes in consultation with the State Revenue Office, Department of Treasury and Finance and other industry associations.