Great Ocean Road Action Plan

B100

GREAT OCEAN ROAD ACTION PLAN

Protecting our iconic coast and parks Dormant Tower Hill Volcano

30 responsible organisations 8.6m visitors a year 2/3 within ten years journeys are day trips Nearly 170,000 hectares of Crown land Up to 12,000 visitors Over a day to the 12 Apostles 200 shipwrecks 5.8m visitors spent $1.3b 2cm/yr generating the rate at which the cliffs are being eroded

From 1846, the 12 Apostles were once known as limestone “The Sow and Piglets” 7 stacks (out of the original 9), known as the 12 Apostles Great Ocean Road Action Plan

Eastern Maar and B100 The Great Wadawurrung Ocean Road People have known is the world’s and cared for this largest war CountryInfographic for at least In 2011 memorial 35,000 Added to the years National Heritage List

Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach is the world’s longest running 2 surfing competition National Parks 24,000 Number of people in Lorne during the Pier to Pub (up from normal population of 1,100)

11,200 jobs 2 in the region in 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires destroyed Marine National the year ending June 2017 Parks 42,000 and 729 hectares houses 3 2015 Wye River bushfire destroyed Marine National Sanctuaries and Rare polar dinosaur 2,260 115 fossil sites hectares houses Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Purpose Acknowledgement This Action Plan is the Victorian Government’s response to the Great Ocean Road Taskforce Co-Chairs The Victorian Government proudly acknowledges the Report recommended reforms to Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People as the traditional management arrangements of the custodians of the Great Ocean Road region. Great Ocean Road, its land and We pay our respects to their Ancestors seascapes. and Elders, past and present.

We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage, beliefs and intrinsic connection to their traditional lands, which continue to be important to them today.

We value the contribution their caring for Country makes to the land, coastlines, waterways and seascapes along the Great Ocean Road.

We support the need for genuine and lasting partnerships with the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People to understand their culture and connections to Country in the way we plan for, and manage, the Great Ocean Road region. By integrating traditional ecological knowledge and land management practices with contemporary western ecological knowledge, we can deliver better environmental outcomes, make communities more liveable, and provide a great visitor experience.

We embrace the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s First People. Source: Visit Victoria Source: iii Great Ocean Road Action Plan Minister’s foreword I love the story behind the creation of the Great Ocean Road.

It’s special because, initially, it was funded by Left unchecked, these threats could destroy this everyday Victorians. When the survey party precious part of our state – and impact on the started pegging out the route in August 1918, and liveability of local communities. when construction works commenced in 1919, the Road didn’t have government support – it These local communities have told us that major was bankrolled by public donations to provide change to the management of the Great Ocean employment for returned servicemen. Road is required, and that we need to take action urgently. It was designed to open up access to the This includes embracing Traditional Owner dramatic coastlines for day-trippers and tourists, Hon Lily D’Ambrosio connections to Country, managing congestion and as a permanent memorial to the servicemen Minister for Energy, Environment who served in World War One. Its construction – during the popular summer period and better and Climate Change built largely by hand and as close as possible to support for local communities. the ocean – was a momentous engineering feat It’s why the Great Ocean Road Taskforce was at the time. established as a bipartisan effort with two Today – 100 years on – the road and its independent Co-Chairs, Peter Batchelor and breathtaking coastal landscape is one of the Terry Mulder – both former Transport Ministers world’s great ocean drives, attracting more tourists in different governments and both residents of than Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef combined. coastal communities along the Great Ocean Road.

But the Great Ocean Road is more than just a road. Together with Traditional Owners and a panel of local experts from different fields, and the CEOs It’s the traditional lands of the Eastern Maar and from the five Councils, they have worked diligently Wadawurrung People. and consulted widely.

It’s a living memorial. A tourism drawcard. A As part of their findings, the Co-Chairs have made national treasure. 26 recommendations, with an unprecedented range of reforms to protect the coastal land and And it’s the home of 24,000 residents. waters for years to come.

Right now, the road is at a critical juncture. I want to thank the Taskforce members for their work, and the Co-Chairs for their landmark report. Like many international tourist destinations, the Great Ocean Road is challenged by increasing With in-principle agreement for every single numbers of visitors, forces of nature – and the recommendation, we’ll keep working to protect this impacts of climate change. most special part of our state.

Combined, these elements are having a very real Now – and for future generations. impact on the beaches, cliffs, plants and animals – and in places both the day-to-day and long-term operation of the Road are also at risk. Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Eastern Maar foreword

The Eastern Maar are the Traditional Owners of south- We were invited to participate in the Great Ocean Road Taskforce western Victoria. Our land extends as far north as Ararat and review into the management arrangements for the Great Ocean encompasses Warrnambool, Port Fairy and the Great Ocean Road. We welcome the invitation to be part of a process relating Road. It also stretches 100m out to sea from low tide and to the management of such a significant part of our lands. therefore includes the iconic Twelve Apostles. It is our hope that the proposed governance reforms are Our identity is tied to our Country. We have looked after these places implemented in full, with the Eastern Maar People built in to those for tens of thousands of years, they are our responsibility and our processes, so that we may continue to guide the protection, sanctuary. They have sustained us physically and spiritually. It is well restoration and culturally sensitive development of this important documented that our history since European colonisation has been tract of our Country. difficult. The decline of our population during 1830-1880 has been described as catastrophic resulting from exposure to European diseases, massacres and dispossession, with our remaining numbers pushed onto missions. Despite that, we never ceased looking after our Country and passing our stories down.

Twelve Apostles Source: Visit Victoria Great Ocean Road Action Plan

Wadawurrung foreword

The Wadawurrung People are the Traditional When we see Bunjil, our Creator Spirit, we know We know from the work we do that people Owners of the land and waters that run from the our waters and land are healthy. Bunjil created want to know more about the First Peoples of Great Dividing Range in the north to the coast our landscape, our stories of all things living. He the land. in the South, from Werribee River in the east protects our country and connects us with our Tourists and most locals have minimal to Painkalak Creek at Aireys inlet. Our Country stories and cultural beliefs. knowledge of Wadawurrung history and includes hills, rivers and grassy plains, creeks We have a responsibility to continue to protect culture along the Great Ocean Road, with no and coasts, as well as encompassing the major the stories, values and significant cultural sites Wadawurrung acknowledgement signage, regional cities of Geelong and Ballarat. along the Great Ocean Road. We hope that in language, stories or history displayed along The Great Ocean Road – from Torquay to partnership with others the cultural importance the route. Painkalak Creek – is Wadawurrung Country. of the region is valued, and that this is clearly Implementing the cultural stories and values outlined in governance, law and policy. For thousands of generations, we have cared will inform people and enrich the experience of for and protected the land and waters of our That is why it was vital that we, as Traditional travelling along the Great Ocean Road. Country, including its heritage, cultural values Owners, had a voice in all aspects of the Reconciliation is about bringing all together. and traditions. Great Ocean Road Taskforce’s conversations and recommendations. We believe that the Let’s walk together, alongside one another, Our history and connection to this part of Government is committed to see the best so cultural heritage and values along the Wadawurrung Country is rich in stories. We held outcomes for the Great Ocean Road and we Great Ocean Road are known and shared with ceremonies, we gathered, hunted, traded and look forward to playing a primary, and active, respect, understanding and accountability. cared for Country with traditional fire burning role in implementing the Great Ocean Road for revegetation. Action Plan. Point Roadknight Protecting our iconic coast and parks Amy Gillett Gran Fondo Gillett Gran Amy Surf Coast Images Great Ocean Road Action Plan Introduction

viii Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Introduction

The Taskforce was given a job of national significance – to identify the steps that need to be taken to safeguard the future of the coastal land and waters of the Great Ocean Road.

On 14 September 2017, the Victorian The Taskforce conducted the first found that – given the Great Ocean Government established the Great Ocean independent assessment of the Road’s outstanding natural, cultural and Road Taskforce. The Taskforce is management and oversight of the heritage values – there was a need to independently co-chaired by the Hon Peter entirety of the Great Ocean Road region. treat the region as a single, integrated Batchelor and the Hon Terry Mulder. Its and living entity. membership includes representatives of It consulted with 38 organisations and the Traditional Owners, tourism and coastal found widespread agreement on the management and local government. need for reform. The Taskforce also Lorne Pier Source: Visit Victoria

1 With that in mind, the Taskforce released •• its visitors spend $1.3 billion a year a landmark Issues Paper in March 2018 and support 11, 200 jobs in the region1 for community comment. •• it is home to rare dinosaur fossils, In that Issues Paper – Governance of more than 200 shipwrecks and some the Great Ocean Road Region – the of Australia’s most iconic coastline, Taskforce: from Bells Beach to the Twelve •• recommended a new management Apostles to the Tower Hill volcano model and formal policy position •• it boasts everything from national to provide direction to the parks to marine sanctuaries development of the land and Great Ocean Road region •• it is the traditional land of the Eastern •• explained that a lead agency is Maar and Wadawurrung People, as needed because – although more well as a functioning memorial to the than 20 public agencies currently servicemen of World War One, it is have responsibilities in the region – hallowed ground for many Indigenous there is no overarching management, and non-Indigenous Australians. no clearly defined partnership with In short, the work of the Taskforce has the Traditional Owners and no holistic confirmed that the coastal land and planning for the touring experience waters of the Great Ocean Road are unique – and priceless. •• called for the development and funding of a 30-year strategic There is no place in the world like the framework plan covering the Great Ocean Road. entire region. And, now, as Australia marks the To fully appreciate the importance of the centenary of the survey for the Taskforce’s work, it’s essential to fully construction of the Road, this generation understand the importance of the Great has an opportunity to secure the future of Ocean Road. its land and waters for another century.

The Great Ocean Road is a national treasure:

•• it attracts more visitors than Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef combined

1. Source: Tourism Research Australia’s National and International Visitor Survey for Year ending June 2017, with modelling and interpretation by Deloitte Access Economics. Visitors stopping to photograph koala. koala. photograph to stopping Visitors Tourism Regional Ocean Road Great Source:

2 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Objectives

This Action Plan is the Victorian Government’s response to the Great Ocean Road Taskforce Co-Chairs Report proposing reforms to the management arrangements.

Like the Co-chairs Report, this Action That obligation is owed to the returned Plan is a landmark document. servicemen who built the Road, the Traditional Owners upon whose land the One integrated It is a landmark because it outlines Road is built, to its local communities, an unprecedented range of reforms to all Victorians who enjoy day trips and living entity designed to protect the future of the and holidays along the Road, and to the The iconic land and seascapes coastal land and waters of the Great millions of people who will visit the Road along the Great Ocean Road have Ocean Road. in the decades to come. outstanding natural, heritage and cultural values and are to be treated This generation of Victorians has an After all, the Great Ocean Road belongs as the one integrated and living obligation to protect the iconic coastal to all Australians. land and seascapes along the Great natural entity for the protection and Ocean Road for the enjoyment and appreciation of future generations. benefit of future generations. The proposition asserts that the country through which the Great Port Fairy Source: Moyne Shire Ocean Road traverses is to be acknowledged, respected and cared for as the one integrated and living entity and not as separate elements. This holistic approach blends the wisdom of the Traditional Owners in caring for Country with a contemporary approach to protect natural, heritage and cultural values and distinctive landscapes.

3 Great Ocean Road Action Plan

The Great Ocean Road Action Plan is guided by five objectives2.

Objective Principle

Protect the ecological • Protect the marine and coastal environments along the Great Ocean Road, the unique habitats, ecosystems, biodiversity and landscapes. and landscape integrity • Integrate Aboriginal traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary western ecological knowledge in environmental management. of coastal and marine • Maintain the coastal assets and secure the coastal public land footprint for the enjoyment and appreciation of future generations. environments • Prepare for, and manage, the impacts of climate change on coastal public land and assets.

Increase Traditional • Acknowledge Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People as traditional custodians of the land, coastlines, waterways and seas along the Owner inclusion Great Ocean Road. • Recognise, protect, and promote the values, rights, and interests of Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People. • Support, and equip Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People to play an active role in shaping the future of their traditional lands, waterways and seas. • Partner with, and equip Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung People in the development of policies, planning and management of the Great Ocean Road, its coastlines, landscapes and seas.

Protect distinctive • Recognise, protect and promote the natural, heritage and cultural values, and distinctive characteristics of the Great Ocean Road, its areas and landscapes landscapes and towns. • Conserve the unique features and special characteristics of the Great Ocean Road, its landscapes and seascapes. • Touch the land, coastlines, and waterways lightly and ensure there is a net gain for the environment3 out of any individual action, development or policy.

Grow the local, state • Recognise the importance of the Great Ocean Road, its land and seascapes to the economic prosperity, liveability and wellbeing of and national visitation local communities, and of all Victorians. economies • Enhance the experience of the touring route and its destinations for all visitors, including international tourists. • Recognise the importance of liveable coastal communities along the Great Ocean Road. • Ensure responsibility for sustainable development of the Great Ocean Road visitor economy is shared by all levels of government, industries, businesses, local communities, and Victorians.

Modernise governance • Provide visionary leadership and overarching direction to the management of the Great Ocean Road and its coastal landscapes and seascapes. • Adopt a holistic approach with integrated strategic planning, coordinated implementation, and aligned decision-making for the length of the Great Ocean Road. • Partner with Traditional Owners in the design of policies and planning for the future direction of Crown land and parks in the region. • Protect the rights and interests of the Traditional Owner groups. • Maintain ongoing dialogue with local communities and prioritise community engagement in designing policies and planning for the Great Ocean Road and its landscapes. • Develop a secure, long-term, commitment to fund the delivery of strategic goals.

2. These objectives were developed by the Taskforce, refined through community consultation, and endorsed by the Victorian Government. 3. The definition of environment here is the “whole of the environment”. This definition has been adopted from the Environmental Protection Act 1970 “the physical factors of the surroundings including the land, waters, atmosphere, climate, sound, odours, tastes, the biological factors of animals and plants and the social factor of aesthetics”. 4 Protecting our iconic coast and parks Storm approaching Aireys Inlet Aireys approaching Storm Coast Images Surf Source:

5 Great Ocean Road Action Plan Actions Actions

6 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Actions The Government supports all 26 of the Co-Chair recommendations, subject to funding.

The Government proposes to implement the 3. A new overarching planning framework 5. A range of supporting initiatives. recommendations (outlined in Appendix 1) for the region that legislates community through five major reforms: involvement in the development of These major reforms will be delivered shared objectives and a framework to through 18 specific actions with further 1. Legislation to protect the Great Ocean provide future direction to the region. work required to establish the finer details Road, its land and seascapes as the one and funding for implementation. integrated and living entity. 4. A better planning approval process with an independent expert advisory 2. A new, dedicated, marine and coastal committee that streamlines planning parks authority with the primary approvals for appropriate development purpose of managing and protecting projects and stops inappropriate the land and seascapes of the Great proposals in their early stages. Ocean Road, to manage visitation and to coordinate delivery of associated government investment projects.

LEGISLATION FOR PROTECTION A BETTER PLANNING APPROVAL PROCESS 1 Legislate the policy 11 Standing advisory committee 2 Legislate the planning framework 12 Planning guidelines 3 Legislate the environmental-economic accounts 13 Planning services support to councils

A NEW DEDICATED PARKS AUTHORITY SUPPORTING INITIATIVES 4 A Great Ocean Road Coasts and Parks Authority 14 Sustainable tourism 5 Work closely with local communities 15 Improved road access and safety 6 Traditional Owner capacity 16 Crown land administrative arrangements 7 Sustainable funding 17 Shared delivery of municipal-like services 18 Commercial tour operator licences A NEW OVERARCHING PLANNING FRAMEWORK 8 Community involvement Timing legend: Short Term: By the end of 2020 (0-2 years) 9 A Great Ocean Road Strategic Framework Plan Medium Term: By the end of 2023 (2-5 years) 10 Monitor implementation Long Term: Beyond 2023 (more than 5 years)

7 Great Ocean Road Action Plan

Legislation for protection The Victorian Government commits to create a standalone Act of Parliament that – for the first time – defines the coastal land and waters that encompass the Great Ocean Road; recognises that the region is a single, integrated and living entity; and makes the management of the region publicly accountable.

Actions

Action 1 Timing: Short term Action 3 Timing: Short term LEGISLATE THE POLICY LEGISLATE ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMIC ACCOUNTS

Introduce a ground-breaking, standalone, Act of Parliament that: Establish a statutory requirement for:

•• recognises the national significance and need to protect •• a set of Environmental-Economic Accounts to be developed the Great Ocean Road, its land and seascapes as a single and maintained for the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks integrated and living entity for the benefit of future generations •• the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability to report •• adopts the recommended five objectives for management of periodically on the environmental condition of the Great the region Ocean Road Coast and Parks, as part of the regular Victorian State of the Environment reporting. •• defines the coastal land and waters along the Great Ocean Wreck Beach, Great Ocean Walk Road to be known as the ‘Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks’ Source: Parks Victoria •• introduces clear lines of accountability and transparency for all organisations involved in management of the region.

Action 2 Timing: Short term LEGISLATE THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK

Enshrine the overarching planning framework in legislation including the strategic framework plan’s minimum contents, area of coverage, community involvement, preparation process requirements, approval processes, requirements for reporting and revision, and the responsible entities that must have regard to the approved strategic framework plan.

8 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

A new, dedicated, parks authority The Victorian Government commits to – for the first time – establish a dedicated, statutory parks management authority, the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, to protect and manage the coastal Crown land and marine waters along the Great Ocean Road for the benefit of future generations.

This will not alter the underlying management tenure and field management services to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park conservation objectives of any national parks areas for which Authority for the marine and island national parks. the new authority assumes responsibility. This will simplify the governance of the Great Ocean Road and The new authority will work closely with Parks Victoria who retain its landscapes. responsibility for broad-acre parks management - including for most of the Great Otway National Park - and who will provide parks Currently there are 11 different managers of Crown land management services to the new authority for its field operations operating in different geographical locations with different to ensure environmental conservation objectives are met. responsibilities, stakeholders, priorities and timeframes. Not one agency has a remit along the full length of the Road. This is similar to the management model for the Great Barrier Reef where the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service provide Hiking along the Great Ocean Walk Source: Visit Victoria

9 Great Ocean Road Action Plan

Actions

Action 4 Timing: Short term The authority’s functions are broad requiring an independent board A GREAT OCEAN ROAD COAST AND PARKS AUTHORITY with a diverse range of skills including all of the following skills: land-use planning and landscape architecture; marine and coastal environmental Establish an independent statutory authority, the Great Ocean Road science; travel, tourism, hospitality and leisure; finance management Coast and Parks Authority, with a skill-based board and independent and investment facilitation; construction management; natural resource chair, to manage the coastal Crown land and marine waters along the management; and cultural and heritage values management. Great Ocean Road. Action 5 Timing: Short term Further work on the details of, and funding for, the new authority will start immediately so its legislation can be considered by Parliament WORK CLOSELY WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES in 2019. Establish structures for the ongoing involvement of local Functions: communities in the protection and visitation management of the The Authority’s primary purpose is to protect and manage visitation Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks. The new Authority will also of the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks: need to establish forums to liaise with and involve key stakeholders (such as an Environmental Advisory Committee and a Tourism i. manage, protect, rehabilitate and foster resilience of the natural, Industry Advisory Committee). cultural and heritage values of coastal Crown land and marine waters along the Great Ocean Road Action 6 Timing: Medium term ii. environmentally sustainable visitation management for the National Heritage listed length of the Great Ocean Road to TRADITIONAL OWNER CAPACITY improve the visitor experience and manage visitation ‘hot spots’ Support the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung to map their tangible iii. a ‘coordinator-general’ like function to coordinate the timely and intangible cultural values in the land and seascapes along the and efficient delivery of government investment (such as visitor Great Ocean Road and strengthen their capacity to actively manage facilities and infrastructure), to minimise the resultant disruption their traditional lands. and inconvenience to travellers and local communities, and to deliver government construction projects. The work of the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority will Action 7 Timing: Short term be underpinned by science and research. SUSTAINABLE FUNDING Board Membership: Establish funding arrangements for the Great Ocean Road Coast •• independent chair and Parks Authority. 4 •• a nominee of each Traditional Owner group for the Great 2. ACTIONS Ocean Road Coast and Parks area

•• up to 8 independent skill-based members. 4. Traditional Owner groups formally recognised through settlement agreements under either the Commonwealth Native Title Act 2003 or Victorian Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 or are the Registered Aboriginal Party under Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. 10 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Apollo Bay Source: Surf Coast Images A new overarching planning framework The Victorian Government will, for the first time, take a generational approach to the management of the coastal lands and waters of the Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road passes through an ancient and dynamic landscape – with strong cultural meaning for indigenous and non- indigenous Australians. The geological events that created and continue to change the landscape began millennia ago. The works that created the Road began a century ago. And the environment, social and economic needs of the area will keep changing in the face of climate change, increased tourism numbers and community demands. 2. ACTIONS The competing needs of the region cannot be balanced unless it is seen as a single, integrated and living entity. That is why a new overarching planning framework, enshrined in legislation, is needed.

11 Actions

Action 8 Timing: Short term COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Involve the community in developing long-term objectives and a shared vision for the future of the Great Ocean Road region that protects the distinctive landscapes and liveability of local communities, and provides a great visitor experience.

Action 9 Timing: Short term A GREAT OCEAN ROAD STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK PLAN

Develop and maintain an overarching Strategic Framework Plan for the Great Ocean Road region that:

•• has a 50-year outlook and gives effect to the vision •• provides direction to municipal and agency activities and decision making •• provides future direction to land use and development in the region •• recognises, protects and promotes Traditional Owner values and heritage values •• prioritises preservation of the ecological and landscape integrity of coastal and marine environments •• includes planning for sustainable visitation and travel along the touring route •• is developed with community participation •• is reviewed every 10 years.

Action 10 Timing: Medium term MONITOR IMPLEMENTATION

Require all public entities with delivery responsibilities in the Great Ocean Road Strategic Framework Plan to report regularly on their progress for an annual report to Parliament submitted by the

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority. Apostles the Twelve Viewing

12 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

A better planning approval process The Victorian Government will strengthen the planning system to properly protect the Great Ocean Road and its landscapes from inappropriate development.

By creating a standing advisory committee that will give expert advice on development proposals, this reform will streamline the process for appropriate development projects and stop inappropriate proposals in their early stages. We need to encourage smart, environmentally sustainable developments that will secure the region’s future prosperity and liveability.

Actions

Action 11 Timing: Short term Action 12 Timing: Short term STANDING ADVISORY COMMITTEE PLANNING GUIDELINES

Establish a standing advisory committee for the Great Ocean Identify options for planning guidelines to accompany the Great Road region (under Section 151 of the Planning and Environment Ocean Road Strategic Framework Plan that provide clear direction Act 1987) to provide independent expert advice on sustainable land on appropriate land-uses and development design standards development and development proposals. This reform will stop across the area. inappropriate development proposals in their early stages and streamline the progress of appropriate development proposals. Action 13 Timing: Short term Functions: PLANNING SERVICES SUPPORT TO COUNCILS i. act as a Review Panel for Planning Scheme Amendments and Planning Permits that are called-in by the Minister for Planning Identify options for planning services support to supplement ii. act as a Land-use and Design Review Panel for councils, for visitor the councils’ capacity to assess large and complex land economy development proposals that are consistent with the development projects. Strategic Framework Plan and associated Planning Guidelines iii. act as a Review Panel for coastal and marine management plans, and coastal land consent permits within the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks area iv. provide policy and strategic advice to the Minister for Planning.

Skills: Whilst the advisory committee can seek expert skills as required, its membership will have an understanding and appreciation of 2. ACTIONS the region and include all of these skills: strategic and statutory land-use planning; architecture, urban design and landscape architecture; marine and coastal environmental science; transport planning; Traditional Owner values; heritage values; tourism and economic viability.

13 Great Ocean Road Action Plan

Supporting initiatives No single action will secure the future of the coastal land and waters of the Great Ocean Road. What is required is a generation of actions. These supporting initiatives are no less important than the earlier major reforms.

Actions

Action 14 Timing: Short term Action 16 Timing: Medium term SUSTAINABLE TOURISM CROWN LAND ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS

Develop a sustainable visitation management strategy for the Review and align Crown land reservations and parcel information Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks that focuses on a great within the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks with the directions visitor experience and increasing the economic benefit to local of the Great Ocean Road Strategic Framework Plan. communities including: •• a capacity analysis for the Great Ocean Road (coast, parks Action 17 Timing: Short term and marine environments, the road, key destinations, and land-uses) to understand visitation management options SHARED DELIVERY OF MUNIPICAL LIKE SERVICES and constraints Establish a working group to identify opportunities for councils and •• better visitor facilities, amenities, products and services government agencies to work together to deliver municipal-like •• enhanced digital connectivity to boost both visitor services such as facilities maintenance and cleaning, gardening experience and emergency services needs and waste collection. •• identifying other tourism infrastructure/facilities requirements along the Great Ocean Road. Action 18 Timing: Short term COMMERCIAL TOUR OPERATOR LICENCES Action 15 Timing: Short term IMPROVED ROAD ACCESS AND SAFETY Review the public land commercial tour operator and commercial activity provider licences system. Develop a transport strategy for the regional network (including the Princes Highway and north-south links to the Great Ocean Road) and prioritise the pipeline of investments required. Work with road safety agencies to review and identify priority projects for improving the safety and well-being of travellers along the Great Ocean Road. 2. ACTIONS

14 Protecting our iconic coast and parks Lorne Visit Victoria Source:

15 Great Ocean Road Action Plan Implementation

16 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

Implementation

The Victorian Government is committed to implementing this Action Plan in collaboration with the local governments along the Great Ocean Road, and with the involvement of local communities.

The Great Ocean Road Taskforce has played a leading role in Plan and regularly consult with local communities during its developing and advising on this plan. The Taskforce will continue implementation. Quarterly status reports will be publicly released to advise the coordinating Ministers and provide regional oversight to provide transparency on the progress being made. of the Action Plan delivery. All projects and actions requiring funding will be carefully assessed A multiagency delivery team is being established in the Geelong against the criteria and budget capacity of potential funding office of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and sources. Funding decisions will be made in line with normal Planning to manage the delivery of this Action Plan. The delivery Government policy and budget processes. team will brief local communities on the Great Ocean Road Action

Great Ocean Road Taskforce

From left to right: Bruce Anson, Peter Batchelor, Keith Baillie, Jamie Lowe, Wayne Kayler-Thomson, Diane James, Paul Davis, Elaine Carbines, Tony McGann, Jason Mifsud, Corrina Eccles, Terry Mulder. Absent: Andrew Mason, David Madden.

17 Budget to-date

Delivery of this Action Plan will occur within the changing context of government initiatives and local strategies, plans and policies that are already underway, including the Geelong City Deal, the Shipwreck Coast Masterplan and the new Marine and Coastal Act 2018. The Victorian Government’s 2018-19 Budget allocated $155 million for delivery of special projects along the Great Ocean Road. This investment builds on the $165 million of funding already allocated for projects along the Great Ocean Road by the Victorian and Australian governments.

Great Ocean Road The Australian and Victorian governments have invested $100 million in the Great Ocean Road Upgrade project $214.7 million to improve safety, and the experience of Australia’s most visited destination. This extensive program involves resurfacing the Road, pedestrian and cycling improvements, replacement of several bridges and the installation of new drainage at over 100 locations. The Victorian Government has also committed an additional $53 million to safeguard the geotechnical future of the Road following the 2016 floods and landslides at Separation Creek and Wye River.

Access Roads The Victorian Budget 2018-19 provided: • $39.9 million for Princes Highway West upgrades – Colac to South Australian border • $9.8 million for the Forrest-Apollo Bay Road upgrade • $12 million for safety improvements on the Anglesea Road between Freshwater Creek and Bellbrae

Simplify the complex The Victorian Government allocated $1.3 million in the Victorian Budget 2017/2018 to establish the Great Ocean $1.9 million management arrangements Road Taskforce (the Taskforce) to review the effectiveness of current governance arrangements and recommend for the Great Ocean Road governance reforms. The original budget has been supplemented by an additional $625,000 from Regional Development Victoria who in partnership with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning are supporting the project delivery.

Tourism industry To build on our success, the Victorian Budget 2018/19 invests in tourism and regional promotion, including $153 million To be advised for Victoria’s share of the Geelong City Deal with funding going to build the new Convention Centre and progress the Shipwreck Coast Masterplan including the Glenample Visitor Experience Centre at the Twelve Apostles. The Great Ocean Road will benefit from $51.1 million allocated for international and interstate tourism campaigns, support for Business Events Victoria and regional tourism boards to attract more tourists and create more jobs. The Victorian Government has also committed: • $2.5 million to improve visitor facilities at Maits Rest, Melba Gully and the Cape Otway Legislation • $300,000 to investigate the merits of designing a walking trail for Torquay to Apollo Bay

Shipwreck Coast The Victorian Government has invested $9.8 million to commence Stage One of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan $14.8 million These projects include: • Campbell’s Creek Pedestrian Bridge, Port Campbell • ‘The Saddle’ Lookout, Twelve Apostles • ‘The Blowhole’ Lookout, Loch Ard Precinct • Digital upgrade, Twelve Apostles An additional $5 million has been allocated to implement early works on the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan with initiatives to improve and better manage the flow of traffic and safety for pedestrians.

Investment and jobs growth The Victorian Government has allocated $220,000 from the Regional Skills Fund to help Surf Coast Shire, $220,000 Colac Otway Shire and Corangamite Shire develop workforce planning and development strategies to plan for investment and jobs growth. 18 Protecting our iconic coast and parks Steps cliffs at sunrise cliffs Steps Coast Images Surf Source:

19 Great Ocean Road Action Plan Maps

20 Proposed Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Area Map 1 A W ARR l ans NAM B ford O M M R R O C C e e L e e o o p p se s a a ung u e Purnim sta s n rve r t v a g e l l a a

Por Hopkins River Hopkins Ellerslie W tland a r nam Nul Peterborough law

Mount Emu Creek

bo G

r are e

ol O

e Curd a

n MO

R YNE d

P CO R A e NG A

i M t Geelong I T

R E C eval e C e o rb urdies Rive se a T M o sta erang rve Campbell ro No ug l el The Arches The Arches Sanctuary Sanctuary h r Marine Marine bourne rat Port Camperdown T Glenfyne i mb o on Creek Scotts A A Po N N N p p Cob a ation o a o rt C t s t st T T i io t o w w l le e n na Princetown e d e a s Ken s Ma a a M l l m v l ve en l

l e P Par P a p a r ri a be Gel r i n ne k k rk ed e l li ys b Lo rand Crek w er Si Kariah Werit mps COR A NG A MI T

on E COLAC OT WA

Y Po mb orn

Gell ei ibrand Ri t Hil Lavers Y Pi al l r lo ro

Gel ver ck n H li o A b

r ire d rand

V R ern iver a l e

Cor Forest Beech Gel ro Col li oke B B Up b E E a a rand l l y y Apollo li l Baron i

ac o o C C t t o o er Bay

R R a a i i s st v ve Beeac Fo t e P a a r r r l l H g

- - i rest R R

w aro A A

e e c

Marengo d y d

s se e

d d s r r i i

v ve s s ok

Birregurra

e B

r a

t s e W r e v i R n Crek o Sken

Ken B r h c n a

iversi Woad es et

on y Wye Ri

Y Ri C aloak C C N N hannel G Gre o o ver a ation r a a W t e s sta R i C C a a o o o t L e o

a C umber n t t Ow n ng O o

ver L se A a O C l l

g a a r O R Re T

sta W ne A a a

rve Y l l t P P e S r ra w U R s se r F C l a a O a e a a A l S T and r rve rk r y y v M Deans k e arsh Lorne R Barwon River

iver Wi nch Wensl el sea 0 Fairhaven eyd Anglesea ale A Kilometres Modewarre ireys Moriac 10 In N N l et P P a a o o t t M M i io i i o n nt a a n na t

r ri a A A i C C n ne l l d d

S e P Pa o o d d Q Que

a a Ge i R U i s s r rk s sta u L L k t e o o

e e

r r

l Fwy l

F F R Re n ne n nscli 20 Princes elon

e s G e

- G - C s se l i

e Jan Juc E f f

T R

f f r O rve

orq E

e E

A L

S O

ay N

Breamlea Breamlea E

Reserve

Reserve Coastal Coastal

G R B B P P a a o o R R y y r r e e

t t Phi C C s se P e o o h r rve a a v i s st l l e l t i ip p a a l l Legend

City Regional Centre Town Local Government Area Urban Extent Great Ocean Road Freeway Highway Arterial Rail Line Watercourse Water body Coastline Proposed Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Area National Park State Forest Plantation Other Public Land Coastal Reserve / Coastal Waters Planning Scheme Zones Public Conservation and Resource Zone (PCRZ) & Public Parks and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) Proposed Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Area Map 2 W Allansford P r i A n c

R e s R H

N w

Gillear y Lake A M Pr B ince H O wy s Allans Forest O W

ar L

rnambool Rd

C Mepunga Reserve Reserve Coastal Coastal obden - W M e e pu s t Naringal n ga Mepunga Mepunga East Th Nullawarre e

C o v

u c

l e yC re ek

M ull

T awarre O imboon - Y N N N ulaw orth R Nirranda E d a re N i ra So nd u th a C D e orn la ne e r

i h W

Curdievale

r o f s e r y C y e k s

d R d

r East Nirranda e e k Brucknell Peterborough Peterborough Reserve Reserve Coastal Coastal Mosqui

to Creek

Hamilton C

St u

d Spring Creek i

R F

v e Petr

e n r t o

Heytesbury n W

T C

i r Lower m

e e

s L

k T

S Skull Creekeech t

quirrel Creek o

rou

C n r

eek

g o

i a M on

h W

a n

l S la t b y C re e k Pa Corner Paaratte a

rate

l l e b p m a

- n o o b m i

r o

C l l e b p m a t

- n e d b o

R d

t r o P P P o o r r N R R C C t Ca t C e e e o o s se a a w a e s sta m m ﬁe r rve t P ve a p p l l ld o b b The Arches The Arches Sanctuary Sanctuary e e rt C Marine l l Marine l l Cooriemungle

amp

n r e t s a W a

k e e r C re l

C R

t u

l R

k e e r C e g d e A

w h s e

Otra Creek A

t a

k e e r C r C e I

a T P C Po N

r N E o

m o

a ation o

r rt C

i r

t c i i e

h C o m

a n a u amp

e a n a

l m

g V

l l

P r P l

e l s e

e p

e C

a a b be

k e

r r rk e e

k C

l e l

l l

Latrobe Creek Latrobe k e T T N N w w a a e e t t l l M M ve ve i io o a a n na

Ap Ap r ri a i n ne l l o o e P P s stl a a t r r l e e k k s s

P rincet Rd own

Boggy Prin Creek Ken ceto Crek ed P P r r R w R

C C

i ince n G ys e e o o n c s se

a a e e

s l sta t l

rve

t i o b ow ve

w r J

l a

l o

n n n n

e d

R s

C v

e r

d R n e d b o C - k

L r e v a

i H s

l l

n a y Gel

Burrupa

k e e r C t a e r O

n a e c O b T O Lo

rand

W N L

w a A

r C

er i

d R

e h C

l C a

D p r e p C

e e l ha

v e G Gre

k C on r r N N p V e e d a a

e ple a ation ale P Pa

k ale t t t Ow a i O W o Gel H r rk librand n k

atle

l w

a a S k e e r C r e n n i k River Rd l l a a y y Mai n nces C i wy S r Brucknell t obden - H C P librand ampbell iver Rd

Naringal Timboon Gel

A Port yresfor

R C Cobden - Cooriemungle oo d riem wy T un Kennedys esH imboon - gle rnambool Rd d Rd C C inc ar Nullawarre re Pr W ampbell ek Creek North - CobdenL Rd Chapple Allans Forest aver P Vale Allansford R or d t s Hi k ree ek C ll eCre Mepunga Nirranda ton ppl WA RRNA MBO OL Mepunga en Cha West East F Timboon East Paaratte West S wn kinner Creek Whi Corner CO RA NG A MITE o COLA C imboon - T Rd skey C Paaratte incet OTWAY ullawarre r d Nullawarre N P R ree reek C Newﬁeld MOYNE k h Mepunga eec Waarre Devondale Lake Delaney L Gillear Great Otway Corner o Creek Skull Creek t ones J C National re e Park Eastern k Curdievale Mosqui Otra Creek Vesl Creek e Cre Mepunga Nirranda k ek k e Coastal e re Port Campbell The Cove e C Reserve r y National Park B eyC b Fr Br uckl lla eshw yan Nirranda a at Heytesbury W er Creek t Creek South R Na Lower utl rie edge Creek lCr eek Cl reek Spring Creek ichae Peterborough Carm Coastal Port Campbell Latrobe Creek Burrupa Reserve Coastal Reserve reek G C C reat u rd Port Campbell Ocean ie Squirrel Creek sR The Arches oggy iv B Rd er Marine Princetown Sanctuary

Hamilton St Gellibrand G elli bran Peterborough dR Lower ive Princetown r Twelve Apostles Coastal Marine Reserve Wattle National Park Hill Proposed Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Area Map 3 Port Campbell Port A National Park National Park A N N p p C a o a o

t st t s O

T L T io t i a t

o w k e e r C e b o w r le l e na n R e e s Ma s a l M l A ve l v l

P e P a N a a ri r r r i Boggy Creek Prin ne n k k G e Princetown A Reserve Reserve Coastal Coastal M ceto

I G

l E

i w b

a n

d R

e r Gel li b Lo rand

ru r n a er y

k e e r C pa W

H atle N

i a

l r

l C

e k Y u u l o n

R g unni ng C P reek

oynton Creek

an C r e e k g e rip Crowes

Melba Gully

h Jo

H a

e n Lavers

S ha ig

n ta

f a f Hill R hts

o n r

i d Ju Grah v na

Johanna C e r

r e nc e k ti a o m n

Stalker

r o

i R

r e v

Glenaire

n d

C i c n a i

C k e e r

Clearwater Creek Hord

l Y d o V ung C

e reek

ern

al r

D R

D i

k e v

C N N

e e r G Gre

e r a ation

e r p

k C t e

r i

Otw e a a o C e

k n t t

a O

Otw p l

w A

a a i a a

r e r rk y y k

P a O C

r G k T

reat O e

R r

Ocean L

i v A

A e

r Rd

C Y

k e e r C y n o H C

orn ap V Aire Farrell Creek Farrell al e e

R Kil

i E

l l e

t t o i

r a

i R

r e v

t y

C C G o o

E E a u a A

A A

l l

li n sta s l

d d

y d o Creek Falls o t d d

a e t t r

i i l l s R R s Ba s Re R o Apollo B i i B n ve ve e C a a se s r r r r e e

y h

Bay e rve r - -

a i

ve l k

m o

R d R i C R ve

Marengo r

e e r S e S

e e e a a f f M M

s s k nct n

a a M M A A c re r t p p a a e uar u o o R R C C r ng r n a

ine i l l

e e

o o n

lo lo r

k e e r C g n i v r s I se y y o o a a e e

B B s sta r rve t a a ve a y y l l Petticoat Creek Sken Skenes Creek North Crek

r e e k W on ga ra

g t

arlo l

r e

af e

W W k R C R C o o e e o o ng n se s a a g e sta s a a rve r t ve ra r a r l l a

Grey River

y e r G

r e v i C C o o a a K K s sta e e t a n ne l l n R Re e e t t

s se R Rive e i ve r rve ve r r Kennet River CO RA NG A MITE Ne Stalker Farrell Creek ttle Coastal Reserve Cre B k Aire River ek Grey r e C R yan Lavers e iver r ianci L C at t Grey River Creek Hill g robe Creek n Skenes o u N C o Creek a reek Y Boggy Creek r ie Crowes North l Aire Sugarloaf C S r Princetown e k Valley Irving Creek e i k n Falls Creek Wongarra n Wongarra e Coastall B Port Campbell r C r o Reserve r Graham w National Park e COLA C Burrupa e n k Melba Gully Junction Petticoat C Great Otway OTWAY r Creek e G National Park e e k llib ra n Princetown d Wangerrip R Johanna k iv e Coastal e re Skenes r Yuulong Heights nC Reserve so er Creek Cape d Twelve n For Clearwater Creek A Apostles Marine Gellibrand d Horn Killala River M i National Park Lower Rd l k f eek e o r e C r r C dCre rd Ocean ek ng o ff a Apollo unni t R J S reat o G Apollo Bay Creek Johanna Wattle h a Bay nn er r Coastal on aRiv e Hill v i Reserve mR oynt ha P Bar er CalderRiv Marengo Hordern Beau Reefs Marine ty Gully Vale Sanctuary Blind Creek E ll Marengo Glenaire iott Gea ryR Ri Elliot River - iv e ver Addis Bay D r ee S Coastal Reserve pC tony Creek r e e k

D u c k C re e k

P a r keRr iver

Cape Otway Proposed Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Area Map 4 Forrest W R est esrvoi B arw W R R C C G o o r on e e o o r n ng e s se a a y g e s sta R a a r rve i t v v r ra a e E e

r r

l l a l Gre River Kennett i L zabeth Y ake au y Ken g R he i v River e r r R R et King Creek i i ve v O C e

r Co r

W T O C R R

K y K

e M

o e W

e e G h s a n o M L

se s

R a a a

ne n

A c

sta s v

A rve r k

t e

e i a r

C e e

Y t t

l C l

e l u

y l k Gre G r N N e River a ation a a Wye Pa P t Ow t t a i O

o rk r

n D

t k e e r C n Bay Coastal e Bay Coastal w a a l l a a y y Reserve Reserve Apollo Apollo Se C

re J

p a

e ar m

Garvey Creek Garvey s

ti o

o n

n C

e m

l a

k e e r C l

Fisher Creek Fisher

G e S

reat

h S

h e

Ocean o

H a

k e C

C n r E

r d e r P

e k e s

a k e r

Rd r k

o k

e i

C R

e v

n S

C W

i ymbo

Allenvale k G

g o

R l

o ie i r v a

L r

n l n

r e

e Lorne k

i t

e e r e C r

Pde

Mountjoy Be

n n y

C w

e e Ocean k e r rin

Boonah

Big Hill e k y

C C r

n e

o d o e

a r a e s

s sta o k Que Q

n a Creek Spout

u C l l e

R Re r

e e

L L e

n nscli o o e s se

s r r k e n ne c r rve l e i v f f - - f f e Ea Vi e s

w t Moggs Creek Moggs e Arch Memorial rn ReserveReserve Coastal Coastal Boonah Boonah C M re o P g e ai k D n s am kal E Fai a a ac g g l l S S e e rha a a R Ro

n nct Breakfast Creek Breakfast o c

c c t v

uar

k M a

en r S a a y y O r r U i ine Sokil n A Inlet Aireys R e S F T Melaleuca Swamp Creek Salt

Anglesea

r e

e A k ng M C C le

s C arshl o o e L L a rek a a o o R R R i r sta r s o o v ne n t e a a

a r e d d l l - - l Re R nig n Po P i e g o se s ht h

e Hurst Dr int i n t rve r t ve National Park National Park Point Addis Point Addis Marine Marine Beach Bells Be Jan l b ra Ju e Merrigig Creek c R C B R C B

e e

e e o o

l e e G

l s l se a Creek Deep a ls ls e s sta

r rve t B B

g n e o e R l l

a a d Geelong c ch h S M P S M P a a o o a a T i nct i n ri r nt n Rd c i orq ne t n t

e D D uar u a a a r ng n u y y g ay e e r r

CoastSurf Hwy Duneed Creek Thompson Creek Breamlea Breamlea Reserve Reserve Coastal Coastal Armstrong Breamlea Creek G G E R E E C L A on O T n E N e R w Hospital G Swamp a re Merrigig Forrest Yaugher Boonah Armstrong Creek Hospital D en Creek Creek Breakfast Creek Duneed Swamp Creek Sokil GREATER GEELONG Thompson West Barwon M Creek ac Surf Reservoir ki Marshall eC re Creek ek Coast Hwy Connewarre

Deep Creek er iv Benwerrin G R Bellbrae a r e Wymbooliel a s s Salt e Lake S s l to y SURF Creek g n C n Elizabeth y E r A ing Creek r C e sk r CO A ST Breamlea K i e ne e Moggs Creek R S k Rd iv e Coastal k Coastal e p S Breamlea r l S i Melaleuca a m t l Geelong Reserve t R t e C al e ree Geel Torquay r Swamp l Creek e k ong C d Painkalac Jan Juc

r y Point Danger

Pa e

rkin e C Spout Creek Dam Rd s k k Marine onC r e e re Anglesea Sanctuary ek Bells A Memorial Hurst Dr Bells Beach n Beach Fisher Creek d e Arch Moggs Coastal r son Lorne - Point Reserve Creek Creek Big Hill Eastern Roadnight C View Boonah Coastal Reserve He o Lorne - Fairhaven S n S r Coastal h de ain a e rso tG Queenscliff o nC e L Reserve a r o y Aireys e rg n Coastal Reserve k e n C k eR r i C e v Inlet

Garvey Creek r e e e

k r Eagle Rock Marine e k Sanctuary L OceanRd Point Addis Great Otway it tl National eS Marine heoakCreek Park National Park Allenvale Mountjoy COLA C Jam ieso n C OTWAY re Lorne Pde ek

Rd Great Ocean

W ye R i ve Kennett River r Monash G Separation r e Wye Creek iv R y River re ul G ly Apollo Bay Coastal Kennett Reserve River Kennet River Coastal Grey River Reserve

Wongarra Coastal Reserve Protecting our iconic coast and parks Great Ocean Road near Apollo Bay Ocean Road Great Coast Images Surf Source:

29 Great Ocean Road Action Plan Appendix 1

30 Protecting our iconic coast and parks

List of Co-Chair Recommendations

All 26 recommendations of the Co-Chairs Report are supported, and adopted in principle (subject to funding).

State policy position A new overarching planning framework

Recommendation 1 Recommendation 4 Recommendation 7 Recognise the national significance of the Great Ocean Establish a statutory requirement to develop a shared Establish local community reference groups along the Road and its iconic coastal landscapes in State policies vision for the Great Ocean Road region with a long-term Great Ocean Road to provide input and guidance to the and establish a commensurate decision-making outlook (50+ years). development of the strategic framework plan. framework with a focus on its preservation, sustainable economic development, and a great visitor experience. Recommendation 5 Recommendation 8 Recommendation 2 Establish a statutory requirement to develop and Establish a statutory requirement to audit and report maintain an overarching Great Ocean Road Strategic annually to Parliament on the implementation of the Adopt this proposition and five objectives to provide Framework Plan that: strategic framework plan by the responsible public direction to the governance arrangements and decision- • gives effect to the vision entities. making frameworks. • provides direction to municipal and agency The iconic landscapes along the Great Ocean Road have activities and decision making Recommendation 9 outstanding natural, heritage and cultural values and • prioritises preservation of the ecological and are to be treated as the one integrated and living entity landscape integrity of coastal and marine Establish a statutory requirement for the Commissioner for protection and the appreciation of future generations. environments for Environmental Sustainability to periodically assess i. Protect the ecological and landscape integrity of • includes planning for sustainable visitation and and report on the environmental condition of the Great coastal and marine environments travel along the touring route Ocean Road Coast and Parks as part of the regular ii. Strengthen Traditional Owner involvement • is developed with community participation reporting on the State of the Environment in Victoria. iii. Protect distinctive areas and landscapes • is reviewed every 10 years iv. Grow the local, state and national visitation • identifies elements that organisations must have Recommendation 10 economies regard to, and those that are binding. v. Modernise governance. Support the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung to map their cultural values in the Great Ocean Road Coast and Recommendation 6 Parks. Recommendation 3 Establish planning guidelines to accompany the Recognise and protect the marine waters and coastal strategic framework plan that provide clear direction land along the Great Ocean Road as the state significant on appropriate land-uses and development design ‘Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks’ for protection, care standards across the area. and investment.

31 A new overarching planning framework

Recommendation 11 Recommendation 13 INDEPENDENT SKILLS BASED BOARD OF EXPERTS COVERING: • land-use planning and landscape architecture Establish a standing advisory committee to the Minister Establish a new statutory authority, the Great Ocean • marine and coastal environmental science for Planning for the Great Ocean Road region (under Road Coast and Parks Authority, with an independent • travel, tourism, hospitality and leisure Section 151 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987) to chair and skill-based board, to manage the coastal • finance and investment facilitation streamline planning approvals and provide independent Crown land and marine parks along the Great Ocean • construction management expert advice on sustainable land development. Road. • natural resource management • Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung values. FUNCTIONS: FUNCTIONS: i. Act as a review panel for planning scheme The primary purpose is to protect and manage visitation amendments and planning permit applications of the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks, to: Recommendation 14 that are “called-in” by the Minister • protect and enhance the ecological and landscape ii. Act as a land-use and design review panel for the integrity of the coastal parks and marine areas Establish local community advisory committees, an responsible authorities for visitor economy development along the Great Ocean Road environmental advisory committee, and a tourism industry proposals that are consistent with the strategic • protect coastal assets (natural and built), the advisory committee as ongoing forums for involving local framework plan and associated planning guidelines coastal public land footprint, and community communities and key stakeholders in the management of iii. Act as a review panel for coastal and marine access the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks. management plans, and consents to use or develop • prepare for, and manage, the impacts of natural marine and coastal Crown land in the Great Ocean forces on, and climate change risks to, coastal Road Coast and Parks public land and assets. Recommendation 15 iv. Provide policy and strategic advice to the Minister on: OTHER PURPOSES: Enshrine the new governance arrangements for the a. development and operation of the Great Ocean • sustainable visitation management including: Great Ocean Road, its landscapes and seascapes in Road Regional Strategic Framework Plan stand-alone legislation that includes a preamble by the -- operation of visitor facilities and camping grounds b. protection of coastal environments and Crown land Traditional Owners. -- issuing of permits for events and commercial c. protection of the coastal public land footprint activities, leases and licenses and public foreshore access -- regulation of commercial operation in, on or Recommendation 16 d. sustainable visitation management of the Great around the Crown land and marine parks Ocean Road Coast and Parks • support the involvement of the Traditional Owners Strengthen the capacity of the Eastern Maar and e. related matters referred by the Minister. in the management of cultural values and natural Wadawurrung to actively participate in the management of their traditional lands. SKILLS: resources (including Crown land) Whilst the advisory committee can seek expert skills as • coordinate government construction projects and required, its membership would need to include all of the disruptions along the Great Ocean Road following skills: • deliver construction projects Sustainable funding model • strategic and statutory land-use planning • facilitate appropriate economic development • architecture, urban design and landscape architecture • educate and foster community stewardship (and Recommendation 17 • marine and coastal environmental science volunteerism) of coastal land. • transport planning POWERS REQUIRED TO: Establish funding arrangements for the new authority. • Traditional Owner values • ensure funds raised (from caravan parks and • heritage leases etc) can be collected, held, remain with, and Recommendation 18 • tourism and economic viability. be allocated to initiatives within the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Review the long-term risks from coastal erosion and • purchase, consolidate, take on, transfer or inundation, severe weather events and climate change Recommendation 12 otherwise acquire land for inclusion in the Great on coastal Crown land and assets. Ocean Road Coast and Parks Streamline planning approvals by providing planning • regulate commercial visitor operations in or on the services to supplement the councils’ capacity to assess large Recommendation 19 and complex land development projects and ensuring that Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks. referral agencies are adequately resourced. Review the public land commercial tour operator and commercial activity provider licences system.

32 Supporting initiatives

Recommendation 20 Establish a working group to identify opportunities for shared municipal-like services delivery along the Great Ocean Road and develop an implementation plan.

Recommendation 21 Review and align anomalous Crown land reservations and parcel information within the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks with the directions of the Strategic Framework Plan.

Recommendation 22 Conduct a capacity analysis for the Great Ocean Road (the road, coast and marine environments, parks and key destinations, accommodation, coastal towns) and identify visitation management options.

Recommendation 23 Develop a sustainable visitation management strategy for the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks.

Recommendation 24 Review the risks to the ongoing operation and function of the Great Ocean Road and develop a longer-term transport network strategy.

Recommendation 25 Work with Road Safety Agencies to review and identify the priority projects to improve the safety and well-being of travellers along the Great Ocean Road.

Recommendation 26 Establish the visitor expectations and emergency services benefits of enhanced digital connectivity along the Great Ocean Road.

33 For further information on delivery of this Action Plan or to subscribe to project updates, refer to the project website at www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/great-ocean-road-taskforce or by contacting the project team at:

Great Ocean Road Action Plan Delivery Team Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Barwon South West Level 4, State Government Offices 30-38 Lt Malop Street Geelong, Victoria, 3220 Email: [email protected]

© The State of Victoria Department of Disclaimer Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Accessibility This publication may be of assistance to you This work is licensed under a Creative but the State of Victoria and its employees do If you would like to receive this Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence. not guarantee that the publication is without You are free to re-use the work under that flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate publication in an alternative licence, on the condition that you credit the for your particular purposes and therefore format, please telephone the State of Victoria as author. The licence does disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other not apply to any images, photographs or consequence which may arise from you relying DELWP Customer Service branding, including the Victorian Coat of on any information in this publication. Centre on 136186, email Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water [email protected]. and Planning (DELWP) logo. To view a copy of gov.au or via the National Relay this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/ Service on 133 677 www.relayservice.com.au. This ISBN 978-1-76077-216-1 (Print) ISBN 978-1-76077-217-8 (pdf/online) document is also available on the internet at www.delwp.vic. gov.au

34 B100