Victorian Coastal Council

Annual Report 2016–17 Published by the Victorian Coastal Council 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, 3002, Victoria September 2017 © The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Melbourne 2017

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Victorian Coastal Council logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en Printed by Impact Digital Pty Ltd, Brunswick, VIC 3056 ISSN 1327-659X ISSN 2203-9414 (Online) Accessibility If you would like to receive this publication in an alternative format, please telephone DELWP Customer Service Centre 136 186, email customer. [email protected], via the National Relay Service on 133 677 www. relayservice.com.au. This document is also available on the internet at www.vcc.vic.gov.au Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. Photo Acknowledgements VCC, DELWP and Tourism Victoria image libraries and Susan Lloyd. Contact Victorian Coastal Council office for further information.

The Victorian Coastal Council respectfully acknowledges the original custodians of what is now known as Victoria; their rich culture, deep affinity with the land and spiritual connection to it. Contents

Chair’s Foreword 2 1. Highlights 3 1.1 Coast to Coast 2016 Conference 3 1.2 Submission on the Marine and Coastal Act Consultation Paper 3 1.3 Input into Coastal Reform Processes 3 1.4 Strategic Priorities & Projects 4 1.5 Science Panel 4 2. Governance and Functions 5 2.1 Council Membership 6 2.2 Council Operational Chart 9 2.3 General Business Activities 9 3. Implementation of the Coastal Management Act 1995 11 3.1 Victorian Coastal Strategy 2014 (VCS) 11 3.2 Implementation of the VCS 2014 11 3.3 Working with Regional Coastal Boards (RCBs) 12 3.4 Regional Coastal Plans (RCPs) 12 3.5 Coastal Management Plan (CMP) consents 12 4. Regional Coastal Boards 13 4.1 Western Coastal Board (WCB) 13 4.2 Central Coastal Board (CCB) 15 4.3 Gippsland Coastal Board (GCB) 18 5. Operations 20 5.1 Contact 20 5.2 Workforce Data 20 5.3 Statement of Pecuniary Interests 20 5.4 Consultancies over $10,000 20 5.5 Consultancies under $10,000 20 5.6 Major Contracts 20 5.7 Government Advertising Expenditure 20 5.8 National Competition Policy 21 5.9 Freedom of Information (FOI) 21 5.10 Public Administration Employment and Conduct Principles 21 5.11 Women, Youth and Indigenous Affairs 21 5.12 Protected Disclosures Act 2012 21 5.13 Overseas Travel 21 5.14 Building Act 1993 21 5.15 Occupational Health and Safety Policy 21 5.16 Risk Management 21 5.17 Compliance with DataVic Access Policy 21 5.18 Summary of Environmental Performance 21 5.19 Statement of Availability of Other Information 22 5.20 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Expenditure 22 5.21 Local Jobs First – Victorian Industry Participation Policy 22 5.22 Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Attestation 22 6. Council expenditure 23 6.1 Expenditure 23 6.2 Operating Position 23 7. Disclosure Index 24 8. Appendix A: Coastal Management Plans 25 9. Abbreviations and Acronyms 29

1 Chair’s Foreword

On behalf of the Victorian Coastal Council (the management has been demonstrated through the wide range Council), it is with pleasure that I present this report of activities that are highlighted in this report. to the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio MP, Minister for Energy, Other major initiatives this year include: the successful Coast Environment and Climate Change, in accordance to Coast conference held in August 2016; the development of Strategic Priorities and focal projects for the remainder of the with section 8(4) of the Coastal Management Act Council’s term; and the important work of Council’s Science 1995. This annual report covers the period of July Panel. Further detail on these initiatives can be found in this 2016 to June 2017. report. Whilst the Council has a very clear legislative role The Council has worked in active partnership with many parts implementing the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2014 (VCS), of DELWP, the Regional Coastal Boards, Parks Victoria, the Council’s role encompasses a much greater spectrum Office of the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability, including helping to connect coastal communities with the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council, the Australian government processes and encouraging excellence in marine Coastal Society, Local Governments, as well as community and coastal activities. and land managers. The Council thanks all our partners and looks forward to strengthening these crucial relationships. Importantly, many thanks must go to my predecessor, Cathy Whelan, who stepped down as Chair of the Council in early Priorities for the next year include: ensuring further 2017 to take up an important role elsewhere. The success of implementation of the VCS; working with DELWP to help the Council in 2016–2017 was in part due to her great work as finalise the MACA; holding the important Victorian Coastal Chair for the previous two years. Awards in early 2018; engaging with the Science Panel for advice on the implications of new sea level rise predictions for This year has been a time of exciting possibilities and Victorian coasts; and finally partnering with local government, potential change for the future during which the Council DELWP and others to gather information and develop a adopted an active role in engaging and leading input into the methodology to help understand income and expenditure development of a major government priority – the proposed data along the coast through the ‘financing the coast’ pilot. new Marine and Coastal Act (known as the MACA). As part of this important government reform, submissions were invited Finally, thanks must go to my colleagues whose generous on a consultation paper to which the Council provided a contributions of time and support enable the Council to considered and detailed response. In all, 115 submissions were achieve what we do. And most importantly thanks to the received from Victorians interested in improving coastal and tireless staff of the Secretariat who, while small in number, marine management. Council was pleased to build on the have proved to be agile and responsive in helping the Council submission process by facilitating a successful Ministerial with its many tasks. roundtable with major coastal and marine stakeholders. This I am confident that 2017–2018 will be a year of profound roundtable provided an opportunity to assist our Minister to change and positive opportunity for Victorian marine and hear the thoughts of many engaged and active groups and coastal areas. to partner with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) in shaping a clearer set of governance and support arrangements for tackling current and future challenges in marine and coastal management.

Through the MACA and other initiatives, the Council has been serious in delivering on our mission for leading and engaging coastal and marine matters within Victoria. The commitment to, and enthusiasm of members in contributing their expertise Anthony Boxshall and time to improve all aspects of coastal and marine Chair, Victorian Coastal Council

2 1. Highlights

1.1 Coast to Coast 2016 Conference ongoing input to the Victorian Government’s marine and After many months of planning, the twelfth national Coast coastal reform agenda. to Coast (C2C) conference was delivered by Council, The Victorian Government has committed to establishing a in partnership with the Australian Coastal Society. The new Marine and Coastal Act (MACA) to improve management successful conference took place at the iconic Melbourne and oversight for our marine and coastal areas. A Marine and Cricket Ground from 29th August to 1st September 2016. Coastal Act Consultation Paper was released in August 2016, This biennial event provides an opportunity to share original and submissions were requested from the community and key research, new knowledge and experience in coastal and stakeholders to provide input and ideas for how the Victorian marine planning and management, science, policy and marine and coastal environments could be best protected governance, and to raise the profile of marine and coastal to meet long-term challenges such as impacts from climate environments and their values. It provides delegates, sponsors change, population growth, and ageing coastal infrastructure. and exhibitors with opportunities to network and discuss In responding to this consultation paper, the Council took innovation and best practice with experts from the nation’s up its role based upon a deep commitment to community leading management and research organisations. participation as an essential foundation to sound decision- The vision for each conference is selected to reflect changing making and management of the marine and coastal issues and challenges and the vision for this year’s conference environment. Council agreed with the statement in the was to connect people with shared interests and passion MACA consultation paper that opportunities to engage the for marine and coastal areas in ways that: Connect. Inspire. community have not been maximised. Empower. In addition, Council’s submission highlighted the need for Plenary and multi-streamed sessions and workshops were improved coastal governance arrangements to provide for offered enabling delegates to gain a better understanding more effective integrated coastal zone management, and of coastal and marine issues. High profile keynote speakers included recommendations for the improved management involved in the event included Professor Tim Flannery of coastal boundaries; the alignment of accountability, (Australian of the Year in 2007), and Professor Ed Blakely authority and resourcing; strategic oversight and sustainable who led the recovery operations after Hurricane Katrina. resourcing; and access to technical expertise. Presentations provided a thought-provoking overview of what 1.3 Input into Coastal Reform Processes is being done in the coastal and marine space, the big issues, As a further initiative, Council initiated and facilitated a current reforms and future solutions. ‘roundtable’ discussion between key stakeholders and The conference also provided a fantastic opportunity the Minister around the themes of strategic leadership; to highlight key Victorian initiatives via an Indigenous responsible investment; and a well informed and engaged Cultural Values workshop, and five field trips to the Morning community on the coast. The Council used the feedback from Peninsula, Phillip Island, Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and this meeting to offer considered advice on the need to reduce Williamstown. The networking and exchange value of these the complexity of governance arrangements; the need for field trips and other workshops was invaluable. sustainable funding; access to knowledge and capability; and Feedback indicated that delegates particularly enjoyed the the potential impacts on the marine environment of poorly conference dinner with inspiring guest speaker Mick Sowry integrated management activity. sharing his passion for the marine environment through music Council acknowledges the need for reforms to the marine and and images. coastal system and supports the formal recognition of climate 1.2 Submission on the Marine and Coastal Act change in the objectives of the MACA. Council also supports the scope and intent of the eight objectives outlined in the Consultation Paper coastal reform agenda and is keen to assist the Victorian A major aspect of Council’s role is to provide strategic Government with the implementation and refinement of the direction in improving the co-ordination of coastal planning coastal reforms through changes in legislation as well as a and management in Victoria. In relation to this role, a major package of measures to support the introduction of a new Act. undertaking of the Council in 2016/17 has been to provide

3 1.4 Strategic Priorities & Projects coastal reform processes. The strategy identifies activities In preparing for the transition to the Victorian Government’s to improve stakeholder appreciation and involvement in proposed new marine and coastal governance arrangements coastal management in line with the VCS vision “A healthy and, in addition to its ongoing input into coastal reform coast, appreciated by all, now and into the future”. processes, Council has developed a set of clear priorities and • The Victorian Coastal and Marine Awards – the awards projects that are aligned to the Victorian Coastal Strategy have been developed to encourage excellence, knowledge 2014. The Council prepared a revised Business Plan 2015–18 sharing and participation in coastal and marine reflecting these priorities and submitted this to the Minister management. Council is currently planning for the next as required under clause 10 of the Schedule to the Coastal Awards which will be held in March 2018. Management Act 1995. The key priorities identified in Council’s Council believes that these priorities and projects will make a Business Plan 2015–2018 are as follows: significant contribution and will build on and provide a legacy • Effective coastal and marine planning and management of the significant strengths and achievements of the Council • Planning for and adapting to the impacts of climate change since its inception. on the coast • Understanding the condition of coastal and marine 1.5 Science Panel environments The Victorian Coastal Council Science Panel (the Science • Stronger connections, community engagement and advice. Panel) comprises scientists representing a broad range of disciplines related to coastal and marine science, such as Building on these priorities, Council worked to develop a marine and estuarine ecology, climate change processes, series of strategic projects which were identified to form environmental chemistry, coastal and marine engineering, the foundation of the Council’s legacy for the proposed new oceanography and geomorphology. Based on this bank of Marine and Coastal Council. knowledge and expertise in all matters marine and coastal, Council is progressing the following projects: the Science Panel can provide a ‘whole of coast’ perspective. • Financing the Coast – this project responds to the need Membership of the Science Panel consists of more than identified by Council for sustainable funding for the coast. 40 senior scientists based at academic institutions, within The overarching objective of this project is to develop a government agencies and in the private sector. The Panel strategic investment framework for the Victorian Coast. was chaired by Dr Anthony Boxshall for most of the 2016–17 Council is working with DELWP to progress this project. year. David Provis assumed the role of Science Panel Chair • Coastal and Marine Capability Hub – this project responds in June 2017 following Dr Anthony Boxshall’s appointment as to the need identified by Council for access to knowledge Council Chair. and capability by coastal land managers. Council is working with DELWP to further explore opportunities for a hub. The Science Panel played a pivotal role in achieving two • State of the Coast & Marine Indicators – this project important outcomes for the Council in 2016–17. The first of responds to Council’s concerns in relation to impacts on these was the input of the Panel to the process run by the the marine environment and looks to build on the work in Commissioner of Environmental Sustainability prior to the the State of the Bays Report 2016 to develop indicators to release of the first-ever State of the Bays report in December assess and report on the condition of Victoria’s coastal 2016. Science Panel members were involved in providing environment. Council has been working with the Office of expert input and as peer reviewers. The Panel’s role was also the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability and crucial in helping the Council frame a major recommendation DELWP to progress this project. in our MACA submission – that is the need for Victoria to • Communication, Advocacy and Engagement Strategy – this build some form of Knowledge Capability Hub (or dispersed strategy sets the direction for communication, advocacy capability) in order that the new MACA governance and and engagement activities to support the fourth priority management arrangements might provide access to the best above: Stronger connections, community engagement and most useful information and problem-solving expertise and advocacy. It is designed to assist the Council to fulfill to all key players in coastal and marine management. Sharing its function of providing advice. During 2016–17 this was knowledge and expertise across the State will help the new particularly important in guiding the Council’s response to MACA arrangements succeed.

4 2. Governance and Functions

The Council is established under the Coastal The role of Council is to provide strategic direction and Management Act 1995 and is accountable to the to improve the co-ordination of coastal planning and management in Victoria. Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change. The responsible Minister for the period The Council is resourced with a budget and Secretariat 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017 was the Hon Lily support through DELWP. D’Ambrosio, MP, Minister for Energy, Environment The Coastal Management Act 1995, outlines the functions of and Climate Change. the Council. These functions are outlined below including a summary of deliverables against these functions in 2016–17.

Functions Deliverables

Undertake state-wide strategic coastal planning • Initiated the Financing the Coast project (page 4)

• Contributed to the development of a new MACA (pages 3 & 4)

Prepare and submit to the Minister a draft Victorian Coastal • The next draft of the VCS is expected in 2020. Strategy (VCS)

Provide advice to the Minister • Supported the Minister by chairing and preparing information for the round table discussion on draft MACA reforms (page 3)

• Prepared submission on MACA discussion paper (page 9)

• Offered considered advice on matters related to the MACA reforms

Facilitate the operation of Regional Coastal Boards • Met with the Gippsland Regional Coastal Board and the Western Coastal Board to strengthen understanding of operational matters and develop and promote strategic opportunities (pages 15 & 19).

Monitor the development of Coastal Action Plans • Received regular updates on the implementation of the (now referred to as Regional Coastal Plans) three regional coastal plans

Coordinate the implementation of the Victorian Coastal • Partnered with DELWP to support the development of an Strategy and Regional Coastal Plans Implementation Plan for the VCS (page 11).

• Received regular updates on RCP implementation.

Prepare and publish guidelines • Supported DELWP’s review of the Siting and Design guidelines.

Liaise with and encourage the cooperation of Government • Participated in Stakeholder Reference groups (page 8) departments, public authorities, municipal councils, industry, • Chaired a round table discussion on MACA with community groups and persons and bodies involved in the Stakeholders (page 3) planning, management and use of the coast in furthering the objectives of the Act • Worked with DELWP to explore opportunities for a Coastal and Marine Capability Hub (page 4)

Provide opportunities for the public and interested groups to • Hosted the 2016 Coast to Coast Conference (page 3) be informed of and involved in the work of the Council • Met local coastal stakeholders at Council meetings held in Lakes Entrance and Lorne (pages 15 & 19)

Encourage the work of volunteers in using and conserving • Commenced planning for the 2018 Victorian Coastal coastal resources Awards to recognise the important contribution of coastal volunteers.

Give consideration to the needs of Aborigines and other • Worked with traditional owners to develop an Indigenous interested groups in relation to the coast cultural values workshop at the Coast to Coast conference (page 3).

• Chair attended the Celebration of the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council and the associated Act (page 10).

5 Belinda Ainley Minister for Energy, Environment, Belinda was appointed to the Council in and Climate Change September 2015. Belinda has worked in coastal and environmental management for 18 years in State and local government Regional Coastal Boards Victorian Department of • Western Coastal Board and in private industry. She is currently Coastal Environment, Land, • Central Coastal Board working all over Victoria as a coastal and • Gippsland Coastal Board Council Water & Planning environmental planning consultant in her own boutique consulting business. Belinda has a Masters in Environmental Planning (RMIT) and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Parks, Recreation and Marine and Science Panel Coast to Coast 2016 Coastal Act Conference Heritage (CSU). Belinda enjoys open water swimming and Taskforce Taskforce sea-kayaking. Michelle Croughan Figure 1: Coastal governance structure showing relationships Michelle was appointed to the Council between the responsible Minister and entities. in September 2015. Michelle has worked in local and State government as a planner, with a particular focus on the 2.1 Council Membership management of the planning system, Appointments to the Council are made under the provisions for over 20 years. She is currently a of the Coastal Management Act 1995. Under the provisions consultant to the Municipal Association of this Act, Council comprises not more than 11 members of Victoria and works in planning who are appointed by the Governor in Council on the and building policy. Michelle is a Graduate Member of the recommendation of the Minister. Brief biographies of current Australian Institute of Company Directors. She has an Honours Council members follow: Degree in Planning and Design at Melbourne University and a Diploma in Business Management at RMIT. Michelle is a 2.1.1 Members member of her local 3206 Beach Patrol. Members of the Council were appointed on 22nd September 2015. The position of Chair was re-appointed in May 2017 after Stacey Daniel the resignation of the sitting member to take up another role. Stacey is a business and engineering professional who specialises in strategic Dr Anthony Boxshall planning, risk management, governance (Chair) and sustainability. She has worked Dr Anthony Boxshall is a marine ecologist across all sectors including government, by trade who has worked in Australia and industry and consulting, with experience the USA across Government, academia in environmental management, urban and private industry. He is the Founder and regional planning, property and & Principal of Science into Action, using infrastructure, and mining. Stacey is a Chartered Professional leadership, innovation and science Engineer and Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of communication to turn great science Company Directors. She is currently a Council Member of the into greater actions. A former National Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council and former Director of President of the Australian Marine Sciences Association the Falls Creek Alpine Resorts Management Board and Local (AMSA – the largest learned society for professional marine Government Professionals Victoria. Stacey and her family scientists in Australia), he has worked at UC Santa Cruz USA, enjoy many of the activities offered by the coast including Deakin University, and is on a number of innovation Boards. boating, sailing and the beach. A Principal Research Fellow in the School of Biosciences at the University of Melbourne, he is also the current Director, Cr. Dick Ellis Applied Sciences at the Environment Protection Authority Cr. Ellis of the Shire of East Gippsland is (EPA) in Victoria. He is a problem solver and strategist. As a a long-term resident of Lakes Entrance. hobby, he has been communicating the wonders of the marine He has a diverse background in public environment to a broad audience through the award-winning administration and business. Amongst his “Radio Marinara” on 3RRR-FM in Melbourne for over 20 years. membership of a number of Gippsland- He is a dad to 4 children who continually amaze, inspire, wide public boards and committees frustrate and leave him in awe of the potential of the future… associated with the coast is his position and hence more determined to leave a positive coastal and as Chair of the Gippsland Coastal Board marine legacy. and the Gippsland Waste & Resource Recovery Group. Dick maintains a long engagement with community organisations and is President of his local Surf Life Saving Club. Dick is also a committee member of the Australian Coastal Councils Association.

6 Rob Gell Cr. Jill Parker Rob is a coastal geomorphologist by Jill holds degrees in Agricultural Science training; he taught Environmental and Education from the University Science and Physical Geography at of Melbourne and was a teacher for tertiary level, then for thirty years over 20 years, specialising in biology, presented television weather. In his chemistry and agricultural science professional life, he works as an at senior secondary level. Jill is Chair environmental and communications of the Western Coastal Board and is consultant and is a Director of Bhive a Councillor at Moyne Shire. As well Group Pty Ltd. He is a company director, a published author as involvement in other committees and boards, Jill is a and photographer. Rob is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical committee member of the Australian Coastal Councils Society and an Inaugural Fellow of the Environment Association. Institute of Australia and New Zealand. He has been a David Provis local government councillor and was a councillor of the David is a Senior Principal of Cardno Australian Conservation Foundation. He was the Environment with more than 30 years’ experience Ambassador to the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth in consulting in coastal oceanography. Games, a director of Greening Australia for thirteen years He is a member of the National and Chairman of the UNESCO Western Port Biosphere for Committee on Coastal and Ocean a decade. He is also the Patron of the Geography Teachers Engineering, Engineers Australia and Association of Victoria, Wildlife Victoria, Life Education a part-time Research Professor in the Victoria, has been made a Life Ambassador for Australia Day Centre for Ocean Engineering, Science and was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2014. and Technology at Swinburne University of Technology. Ross Kilborn His experience includes the analysis of measured data Ross was reappointed to the Council and and numerical modelling in oceanography and marine Chair of the Central Coastal Board in meteorology. He has carried out significant studies in coastal September 2015. His business background hazard assessments and climate change impacts. has been in senior management roles, Cathy Whelan with an emphasis on strategy, business Cathy Whelan was appointed Chair development and governance. He has a of the Victorian Coastal Council in broad background in community affairs September 2015 and held the position and extensive experience in recreational until February 2017 when she resigned use of the coast, both as a participant, and from a policy to take up a role with the Victorian perspective. He was Chief Executive Officer of Yachting Government. Cathy has 30 years Victoria, and a board member of Bicycle Network Victoria. of public sector management and governance experience and her contributions to Council’s strategic direction and guidance have been invaluable.

7 2.1.2 Council Meetings 2.1.3 Representation on stakeholder reference Seven Council meetings were held in the 2016–17 financial groups year: Council membership on stakeholder reference groups in the • 27 July 2016 2016–17 financial year was as follows: • 28 September 2016 • Marine and Coastal Act Stakeholder Reference Group (SRG) • 23 November 2016 • New Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan • 2 February 2017 • Port Phillip Bay Fund Advisory Group • 22 March 2017 • Victorian Biodiversity Strategy • 19 May 2017 • State of the Environment Report • 21 June 2017 • State of the Bays Member attendance for the Council’s seven business • Boating Infrastructure Stakeholders Group meetings in the 2016–17 financial year are as follows: • Safe and Accessible Waterways Reference Group • Office of the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Dr. Anthony Boxshall 5 (OCES) Reference Group Belinda Ainley 6 • Our Catchments Our Communities (OCOC) Reference Michelle Croughan 5 Group Stacey Daniel 5 • State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) Cr. Dick Ellis 7 • Fisheries Victoria Recreational Fishing Grants Working Rob Gell 7 Group Ross Kilborn 7 • Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council (VAHC) Cr. Jill Parker 5 David Provis 6 Cathy Whelan 4

2.1.4 Presentations given by Council members and staff and workshop contributions Council members and staff gave the presentations and contributed to the workshop shown in the table below.

Presenter Presented To Topic Date Cathy Whelan Deputy Secretary Paul Smith Discuss the MACA 10 January 2017 Consultation Paper Cathy Whelan and The Hon. Minister Lily D’Ambrosio Proposed roundtable 19 January 2017 Connie Hughes discussion on MACA Anthony Boxshall Discussion between the Hon. Minister Lily D’Ambrosio and Regional Roundtable 2 March 2017 (facilitator) Coastal Board chairs, Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria, Victorian discussion on MACA Catchment Management Council, Municipal Association of Victoria, Victorian National Parks Association, Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Victoria, MACA Expert Panel chair

8 2.2 Council Operational Chart 2.3 General Business Activities Council business activities involve: • undertaking specific projects COUNCIL DELWP • engaging with stakeholders and partners through forums, working groups, meetings • providing submissions on key policy documents and guidelines • presenting at conferences and workshops EXECUTIVE OFFICER • advising and meeting with the Minister; and • staging award events. In addition to the highlights in Section 1, a snapshot of the activities undertaken by the Council is set out below. 2.3.1 Council Business Plan Senior Project The Council developed a Business Plan for 2015–2018 which Policy Support provides the vision and strategic direction for the Council Officer Officer until 2018. Priorities outlined in the business plan reflect key issues, outcomes and actions contained in the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2014, as well as responses to emerging challenges and opportunities for Victoria’s coastal and Figure 2: Council Operational Chart. marine environments. 2.3.2 Submissions by Council • To DELWP: Response to Marine and Coastal Act Consultation Paper, 23 October 2106 • To Infrastructure Victoria: draft 30-year Infrastructure Strategy, 31 October 2016 • To Department of Economic Development, Justice, Transport & Resources (DEDJTR): Safe and Accessible Waterways Discussion Paper, 6 December 2016 • Parks Victoria: Submission to Point Nepean National Park Master Plan, 25 January 2017

9 2.3.3 Presentations received at Council meetings The Council received the following presentations at its meetings in 2016–17.

Presenter Topic Date Dr Gillian Sparkes, Commissioner for Environmental Update and discussion on Port Phillip 27 July 2016 Sustainability, Dr Scott Rawlings, Head of Science and environmental management plan Research, Office of the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability, and Dr Jeremy Hindell, Manager State of the Bays Report, DELWP

Will Guthrie, Acting Executive Director Land Management Provided key feedback from submissions on MACA 23 Policy, DELWP consultation paper November 2016

Kate Nelson, Director Community and Strategic Coastal adaptation planning: Lakes Entrance as a 23 Development, East Gippsland Shire Council case study November 2016

Rodney Croft, Manager Environmental Planning, Coastal processes, 23 Gippsland Region, DELWP coastal infrastructure, and responses Lakes November Entrance seawalls 2016

Nick Murray, Chief Executive Officer, Gippsland Ports Maintaining access for tourism and fisheries: 23 Dredging the entrance November 2016

Stephanie Niall, Manager Climate Change Policy, and DELWP’s climate change policy 22 March Jenny Philippe, Policy Officer, Climate Change Branch, 2017 DELWP

Laurinda Di Pietro, Senior Project Officer, Land Significant public benefit – draft policy 22 March Management Policy, DELWP 2017

Dr Jeremy Hindell, Manager Marine Biodiversity and DELWP Coastal monitoring project, part of 22 March Programs, DELWP Protecting Victoria’s Iconic Beaches program 2017 Kelly Crosthwaite, Regional Director Port Phillip, DELWP Protecting Victoria’s Iconic Beaches program 19 May 2017

John Clarke, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation and Overview of Aboriginal connections to country and 19 May 2017 Christopher Patterson, Aboriginal Inclusion Coordiator, DELWP’s Aboriginal Inclusion Coordinator role DELWP

Lisa Dundas, Shipwreck Coast Program Manager, Parks Shipwreck coast masterplan 19 May 2017 Victoria

Connie Hughes, VCC / RCB Partnership Manager, on behalf Update on the MACA transition plan 19 May 2017 of Jeremy Reiger, Manager Policy and Strategy, DELWP

Kelly Crosthwaite, Regional Director Port Phillip, DELWP Coasts and Marine – future business case 21 June 2017 development

Dr Jeremy Hindell, Manager Marine Biodiversity and Marine environment targeted action 21 June 2017 Programs, DELWP

Jeremy Reiger, Manager, Policy and Strategy and Jane MACA transition plan update 21 June 2017 Tovey, Acting Director Policy and Strategy, DELWP

2.3.4 Conferences and Seminars Representatives from the Council attended the following conferences and seminars during 2016–17. • Coast to Coast Conference, 29 August–1 September 2016, Melbourne • Melbourne Coast Adapt (NCCARF) Workshop, 12 October 2016, Melbourne • 2017 Australian Coastal Council Conference, 3 May–5 May 2017, Brisbane • Port Phillip & Westernport CMA and Knowledge Banquet, 15 May 2017, Melbourne • Celebration of the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council and the associated Act, 26 May 2017 • 2017 Catchments Summit, 29 June 2017, Melbourne

10 3. Implementation of the Coastal Management Act 1995

The following section outlines the activities undertaken The first VCS was endorsed by the Victorian Government through the Victorian Coastal Council, Regional Coastal in 1997 and, in consultation with planners, coastal land Boards and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and managers, and users, set up a policy framework for managing Planning (DELWP), to implement the objectives of the Coastal the Victorian coast. The aim of this framework was to create Management Act 1995. a single coordinated policy document based on real statutory authority and aligned with the requirements outlined in Objectives of the Coastal Management Act 1995: Section 15 of the Act. (a) To plan for and manage the use of Victoria’s coastal The second VCS released in 2002 supported the introduction resources on a sustainable basis for recreation, of marine national parks and sanctuaries in Victoria. In 2008, conservation, tourism, commerce and similar uses in the third VCS introduced a new planning benchmark for sea appropriate areas; level rise under climate change, which was embedded in the (b) To protect and maintain areas of environmental State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF). It also identified significance on the coast including its ecological, three significant issues requiring specific attention (climate geomorphological, geological, cultural and landscape change, population growth, and marine ecological integrity). features; The Council finalised work on the fourth iteration of the (c) To facilitate the development of a range of facilities for strategy in 2014. improved recreation and tourism; (d) To maintain and improve coastal water quality; The vision of the VCS 2014 is for a healthy coast, appreciated (e) To improve public awareness and understanding of the by all, now and in the future. coast and to involve the public in coastal planning and The VCS 2014 outlines five long-term, interconnected issues management. facing the Victorian coast. These are: • Managing population growth 3.1 Victorian Coastal Strategy 2014 (VCS) • Adapting to a changing climate The VCS is established under the Coastal Management • Managing coastal land and infrastructure Act 1995, and contains the State Government’s policy • Valuing the natural environment; and commitment for coastal, estuarine and marine environments • Integrating marine planning. in Victoria. It provides a long-term vision for the planning, The VCS 2014 includes measures to ensure ongoing public management and sustainable use of our coast, and the access to our beaches, clear guidance for regional coastal policies and actions Victorians will need to implement over plans, and a more integrated approach to marine planning the next five years to help achieve that vision. and management. The VCS also provides a framework to assist in the 3.2 Implementation of the VCS 2014 development and implementation of other locally and In its role as lead agency for the implementation of the regionally specific strategies and plans such as coastal Strategy, DELWP developed an Implementation Plan in management plans, regional coastal plans, and planning consultation with delivery partners and the Victorian Coastal schemes. Council. The Plan provides the basis for monitoring and The Act provides clear guidance on how the VCS should be reporting on the implementation of the Strategy from 2014 to developed, including what it must contain, how consultation 2019. should occur and how often it needs to be updated. Under The Implementation Plan highlights the priority projects the Act, the VCS must be reviewed every five years, unless the for the next three years, and outlines collective progress Minister directs the Council to review it earlier. in delivering on the VCS so far. The Plan also confirms the appropriate delivery partners for each action, given several Section 15 of Coastal Management Act 1995 states that the organisational changes since the VCS was published. contents of the Strategy must: In developing the Implementation Plan, a progress update (1) Provide for the long-term planning of the Victorian was compiled by DELWP. This update was informed by a coast – workshop that was held in late June 2016 with the coastal a) to ensure the protection of significant environmental planners and managers responsible for those actions, to features of the coast; discuss the issues and to prioritise the outstanding actions, b) to provide clear direction for the future use of the based on criteria including compliance, risk and cost. coast including the marine environment; This showed that most actions in the Strategy were either c) to identify suitable development areas and complete or in progress, and that there were several actions development opportunities on the coast; and that needed further discussion. d) to ensure the sustainable use of natural coastal resources. The Implementation Plan encapsulates the outcomes of that (2) Be consistent with – workshop and subsequent discussions to clarify responsible a) the National Parks Act 1975; and agencies and confirm progress against actions and is b) the purpose for which land was reserved under the available at the following link: http://www.vcc.vic.gov.au/page/ Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978. resources/research-and-reports

11 3.3 Working with Regional Coastal Boards 3.5 Coastal Management Plan (CMP) consents (RCBs) Pursuant to section 37 of the Coastal Management Act 1995, Whilst the Council works with many partners, our partnerships any use or development of coastal Crown land must be with Regional Coastal Boards (RCBs) are paramount. There approved in writing by the Minister for Energy, Environment are three RCBs that operate across Victoria and the Chair of and Climate Change. Figure 3 summarises the applications each Board is also a member of the Council. for the use and/or development of coastal Crown land that were approved by delegates of the Minister during 2016–17. Effective collaboration between the VCC and RCBs is essential to the implementation of the Coastal Management Act 1995. 3.4 Regional Coastal Plans (RCPs) Table 2: Regional Coastal Plans and Coastal Action Plans current during 2016–17 Region CAP title Gippsland Coastal Board Gippsland Regional Coastal Plan 2015–2020 Gippsland Boating CAP 2012 Gippsland Estuaries CAP 2006 Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland CAP 2002 Central Coastal Board Central Regional Coastal Plan 2015–2020 Recreational Boating Facilities Framework 2014 Mount Eliza to Point Nepean CAP 2005 Corio Bay CAP 2005 Western Coastal Board Western Regional Coastal Plan 2015–2020 Western Victoria Boating CAP 2010 Central West Victoria Estuaries CAP 2005 Central West Victorian Regional CAP 2003 South West Victoria Estuaries CAP 2002 South West Victorian Regional CAP 2002 Moyne CAP 2001 Glenelg CAP 2004 Skenes Creek to Marengo CAP 2001 Lorne CAP 1998 Warrnambool CAP 1999 Anglesea CAP 1999

70 Western Central Gippsland Gippsland 60 d Central ove 50

Western 40

30

20

Number of consents appr 10

0 Maintenance Foreshore Lifesaving Facilities e.g. On water Water Commercial Other and maintenance club toilets, constructions management uses upgrades car parks, e.g. jetties, access etc. ports Nature of works or use Figure 3: Number and type of Coastal Management Act consents issued for each region in 2016–17

12 4. Regional Coastal Boards

In Victoria, there are three Regional Coastal Boards (RCBs) As part of its role in supporting the incorporation of cultural which are established under the Coastal Management Act heritage and traditional owner input into coastal and 1995: catchment planning tools and management agreements, the • Western Coastal Board (WCB) WCB has continued to actively engage with Traditional Owners • Central Coastal Board (CCB) in preparing multi-park plans that include coastal areas. The • Gippsland Coastal Board (GCB) WCB has worked with DELWP’s Aboriginal Inclusion Coordinator The roles and responsibilities of each RCB are outlined in (Barwon South West) to ensure Aboriginal groups in the region Section 12 of the Act and include: to advocate for coastal are correctly represented in the WCB Communications Plan. issues; to facilitate the application of the VCS at a regional Aboriginal Corporations were invited to participate in the WRCP level; and to provide advice on coastal planning and implementation plan workshop. Furthermore, as part of its management issues. March meeting held in Port Fairy, the WCB was lucky enough to participate in a tour, led by Gunditjmara elder Aunty Eileen RCBs have a critical role in implementing the VCS. While Alberts, of the Tyrendarra Indigenous Protected Area. At the the VCS establishes principles and policies to guide coastal May meeting held in Lorne, Eastern Maar citizen Brett Clarke planning and management at a state-wide level, these performed a ‘Welcome to Country’ and provided an overview of need to be applied regionally and locally with the benefit of local Aboriginal cultural heritage. regional and local knowledge and context. 2. Managing and protecting coastal values 4.1 Western Coastal Board (WCB) The WCB has worked with partners to share information and 4.1.1 Western Coastal Region participate in events to build regional capacity, collaboration Victoria’s western coastal region extends for 476 kilometres and resourcing. The WCB has been regularly represented from Breamlea to the South Australian border and includes at the Glenelg Hopkins Coastal and Marine Working Group, the municipalities of Surf Coast, Colac Otway, Corangamite, which meets quarterly to share information and collaborate Moyne, Glenelg, and the City of Warrnambool. The west coast with relevant land managers and other partners regarding features iconic attractions such as the Great Ocean Road, the coastal and marine planning. In October, the WCB assisted Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach. Major coastal centres include with the MACA practitioner and public workshops held Portland, Warrnambool and Torquay, and smaller villages in Portland, Warrnambool and Torquay, and in February, and settlements include Port Fairy, Apollo Bay, Lorne and Port it hosted DELWP’s Coastal Protection Assets program Campbell. The increasing popularity of the Victorian coast information sessions held in in Warrnambool and Torquay has seen significant increases in both residential and holiday which was attended by many of the WCB’s key stakeholders populations of towns, with many people becoming aware of as well as members of the public. the special values of the western coastal region. 3. Communities supported to care for the coast 4.1.2 WCB Membership The WCB has promoted, acknowledged and supported the work done by local coastal and marine community groups. The following members were appointed to the WCB on 22 For example, Coastcare’s ‘Summer by the Sea’ program was September 2015 until 30 June 2018: promoted in the December and March issues of the WCB • Cr. Jill Parker – Chair stakeholder newsletter. The WCB also uses its ‘@WCBVictoria’ • Mark Edmonds Twitter account to rapidly promote items of interest to its • Kim Irons stakeholders, for example, retweeting the Great Ocean Road • Oliver Moles Coast Committee’s thank you to the thousands of students • Raymond Page who volunteer on the coast each year. • Alex Rankin • Carole Reid 4. Managing regional population and tourism pressures • Glenn Wallace The VCS 2014 recognises the need for strategic planning to address how increasing tourism and visitor use will be 4.1.3 Key Projects experienced and managed along the coast. The Western, WCB business plan progression Central and Gippsland regional coastal plans similarly The WCB’s three-year business plan outlines activities include actions to develop a visitation levels of service that will be undertaken throughout its term to implement framework. The three RCBs are currently investigating options the Western Regional Coastal Plan (WRCP); key legislative to develop such a framework that can be applied across responsibilities; and actions allocated to the WCB in the VCS Victoria’s coastal and marine areas. The purpose of this 2014. The business plan identifies six priorities, key actions framework is likely to be to: identify where visitation on the and outcomes with timeframes until 30 June 2018. coast can be encouraged and where access may need to 1. A regional approach to coastal planning and be managed or even reduced to protect fragile coastal and management marine areas. A key action for the WCB under this priority is to ensure there Background research has been undertaken and a report are current coastal management plans (CMPs) in place prepared by GeoDimensions consultancy to inform the scope throughout the region. The WCB has actively promoted the for this project. The report suggests it will be important to benefits of CMPs and the use of DELWP’s draft Guidelines for rank and map priorities for conservation; risk; and recreation the development of CMP’s. For example, the WCB encouraged supply and demand. State-wide mapping of coastal and the participation of stakeholder groups in the development marine assets and a third-pass coastal risk (impact) of the Belfast Coastal Reserve Management Plan as well as assessment are currently being undertaken through DELWP’s promoting the plan to stakeholders via the WCB website and Iconic Beaches Monitoring Program. This information will be in its quarterly stakeholder newsletter. made available via the DELWP website in late 2017.

13 A current major gap in information relates to recreation • Parks Victoria, Strengthening Parks Victoria, October 2016 supply and demand. Hence, the focus over the next 12 • Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport months is likely to be on bringing together data on the visitor and Resources, Safe and Accessible Victorian Waterways experience and developing a levels of service approach; Discussion Paper, 14 December 2016. and mapping visitor sites, areas, journeys and waterway A statutory five-year review of the Western Victorian Boating destinations. Many lessons can be learned from Parks Coastal Action Plan (WBCAP) is a priority to be addressed by Victoria’s Visitor Experience framework which applies to all the WCB in the next financial year, with a working group to Parks Victoria managed areas. be established. The review will address how the WBCAP has 5. Adapting to climate change and increased coastal been implemented; what the outcomes were; the successes hazards and failures of the WBCAP; and what unforeseen issues or The WCB has supported local adaptation initiatives and impacts have arisen over the life of the WBCAP. The WCB will promoted best practice responses to coastal climate change also progress the sun-setting of outdated CAPs in the next impacts. The WCB Chair attended the CoastAdapt Tool financial year. Launch Workshop in Warrnambool in October and the WCB The WCB has consistently updated the Council on its promoted this information delivery and decision support activities at Council meetings. The WCB has also completed tool via its website, stakeholder newsletter and Twitter an internal Communications Plan and all members have account. The WCB also promoted Victoria’s Climate Change adopted the DELWP model policies and guidelines for good Adaptation Plan 2017–2020 on the WCB website. governance, including completion of an annual performance 6. Policy and operations assessment survey. The WCB has developed an implementation plan for the Implementation of the VCS 2014 WRCP, using the feedback provided by partner agencies The WRCP addresses the actions assigned to the RCBs in the in a facilitated workshop held at Camperdown in August VCS 2014. In the VCS Implementation Plan, it is noted that the 2016. Building on the success of this workshop, another RCB action to incorporate information about wetlands and is scheduled for July 2017 as an opportunity for partner estuaries, including significant environmental, social, cultural agencies to report on progress against each action. and economic values, is addressed in the Victorian Waterway The WCB has also provided and facilitated input to key Management Strategy. It also clarifies that water quality legislation, with its submission to the MACA Consultation hotspots have been identified in RCPs and will be further Paper; involvement in the MACA practitioner and public identified through State Environment Protection Policies workshops in Portland, Warrnambool and Torquay; and (SEPP). participation in a Ministerial Roundtable with the Minister for Implementation of RCP/CAPs Energy, Environment and Climate Change in March. In August 2016, the WCB hosted an implementation plan Other WCB submissions included: workshop in Camperdown which was well attended by • Glenelg Shire Council, Amendment C86 to the Glenelg partner agencies. Actions in the WRCP were prioritised, and Planning Scheme (use of land for livestock assembly depot strategies to achieve each action were developed. Feedback at Cape Nelson Road, Portland), 11 July 2016 was given on actions already underway. From this, an • Glenelg Shire Council, Planning permit application P16005 implementation plan was developed, with another partner (use and development of land for a clay target shooting workshop scheduled for July 2017. Progress in implementing range at Plantation Road, Nelson), 14 July 2016 the WRCP has been considered in ‘WCB business plan • Corangamite Shire Council, Planning permit application progression’. PP2016/126 (integrated eco-tourism facility at Old Coach Road Princetown), 25 November 2016

14 Working with stakeholders 4.2 Central Coastal Board (CCB) The WCB assisted with the MACA practitioner and public 4.2.1 The Central Coastal Region workshops held in Portland, Warrnambool and Torquay, The Central coastal region, from Breamlea to Inverloch, and hosted the Warrnambool and Torquay information covers 990 kilometres of coastline. It includes the cities of sessions to help inform the development of DELWP’s new Melbourne and Geelong; 1.6 million hectares of hinterland State-wide Protection of Victoria’s Iconic Beaches and catchment; the two large bays of Port Phillip and Western Coastline Program. These workshops were well attended by Port; and coastal waters and islands. The 13 local government the WCB’s stakeholders from local government, committees authorities comprising this area are home to three quarters of management, Parks Victoria, as well as members of the of the Victorian population. community. The WCB has regularly communicated to its stakeholders via 4.2.2 CCB Membership its quarterly stakeholder newsletter, its website, and its Twitter The following CCB members were appointed on 22 September account. It has continued membership of the Glenelg Hopkins 2015 until 30 June 2018: Coastal and Marine Working Group. • Ross Kilborn – Chair • Dr Sandra Brizga Presentations received by the WCB include: • Greg Hunt • Scott Crabtree, Statewide Leader Visitor Experiences, • Dr Rosalind Jessop Parks Victoria – Visitor Experience Framework (Geelong, 18 • Dr Rebecca Koss November 2016) • Jeff Weir • Darren James, Statewide Coastal and Maritime Leader, • Nick Wynn DELWP – the new Statewide Protection of Victoria’s Iconic Beaches and Coastline Program (Geelong, 18 November 4.2.3 Key Projects 2016) CCB Business Plan Progression • Aunty Eileen Alberts, Gunditjmara Elder, Budj Bim Tours – The CCB’s three-year business plan reflects its objectives guided tour of Tyrendarra Indigenous Protected Area (as under the Coastal Management Act 1995 and includes the part of WCB meeting held at Port Fairy, 17 March 2017). actions to implement the Central Regional Coastal Plan (CRCP) 2015–2018. It identifies five priorities which have been As part of its joint meeting with the Council on 18 May in the focus for the CCB’s activities during the year. Lorne, the WCB also received presentations from: • Lisa Dundas, Shipwreck Coast Program Manager, Parks 1. Implement the Central Regional Coastal Plan (CRCP) Victoria – Shipwreck Coast Master Plan The RCP Implementation Committee was established in • Brett Clarke, Eastern Maar citizen, Eastern Maar Aboriginal 2016 to share information and discuss opportunities and Corporation – Welcome to Country and presentation on any issues related to implementing actions in the CRCP. The local Aboriginal cultural heritage group has met twice during the financial year. • Christopher Patterson, Aboriginal Inclusion Coordinator, The first meeting in November 2016 provided an opportunity DELWP – Aboriginal Inclusion Plan for an overview of the CRCP actions and discussion on issues • Wayne Perrett, Senior Project Engineer Great Ocean such as the likely implications of the Marine and Coastal Act Road Update Project, VicRoads and Bob Osburn, review. Actions that had been progressed included DELWP’s Communications and Stakeholder Relations Officer, release of a report on state-wide priorities for local coastal VicRoads – Great Ocean Road Update Project (presented hazard assessments (LCHAs); reports on climate change at field trip to Separation Creek and Wye River). risk assessment for Crown land; and progress on the LCHA WCB attendance at conferences and seminars include: learnings project. • Coast to Coast Conference 2016, Melbourne, featuring a The second Committee meeting in June 2017 focused on presentation by WCB member Oliver Moles in his capacity specific projects. This included an update on planning for as Director Sustainable Development at Moyne Shire a CCB hosted forum in November 2017. The purpose of the Council, entitled Coastal Hazard and Sea Level Rise – The forum is to elevate the priority and profile of the coast; Clock is Ticking raise the level of knowledge for future coastal plans and • NCCARF CoastAdapt Tool Launch Workshop, Warrnambool practices; and create a legacy network. The CCB’s ideas for • Southern Rural Water Board meeting the Sustainable Visitation and Tourism Framework were also • Victorian Aboriginal Heritage meeting outlined and there was support for working closely with Parks • Ministerial Roundtable with the Minister for Energy, Victoria on this project. Another noteworthy project discussed Environment and Climate Change (MACA discussion). at the meeting was the commencement of the Port Phillip Bay DELWP provided briefings on key issues at all WCB meetings LCHA with $2 million funding from the State government. and regular updates on regional coastal activities. This 2. Develop a Sustainable Visitation and Tourism included details on the new Statewide Protection of Victoria’s Framework Iconic Beaches and Coastline Program, as well as updates The VCS 2014 recognises the need for strategic planning from the Land Planning and Approvals team on coastal to address how increasing tourism and visitor use will be management and environmental protection, cultural heritage, experienced and managed along the coast. The Western, capacity building and community engagement, Coastcare, Central and Gippsland regional coastal plans similarly committees of management and coastal management act include actions to develop a visitation levels of service consents. framework. The three RCBs are currently investigating options to develop such a framework that can be applied across Victoria’s coastal and marine areas. The purpose of this framework is likely to be to: identify where visitation on the coast can be encouraged and where access may need to 15 be managed or even reduced to protect fragile coastal and • respond to Strengthening Parks Victoria and Victoria’s marine areas. Climate Change Adaptation Plan Directions Paper. Some background research and a report have been prepared The ‘Protection of Victoria’s iconic beaches and coastline’ by GeoDimensions to inform the scope for this project. The program with funding of $21.4 million over 4 years was a report suggests it is important to rank and map priorities for welcome announcement by the Minister at the Coast to Coast conservation; risk; and recreation supply and demand. State Conference. As part of this program, the CCB and DELWP wide mapping of coastal and marine assets and a second hosted information sessions on the $15 million ‘Coastal pass coastal risk (impact) assessment are currently being protection infrastructure upgrade program’ (seawalls, undertaken through DELWP’s Iconic Beaches Monitoring revetments and groynes). The sessions considered co- Program. This information will be made available via the investment opportunities, a State wide database and greater DELWP website in late 2017. emphasis on risk assessment to prioritise protection projects. The current major gap in information relates to recreation The sessions were held in three locations for central region supply and demand. Hence, the focus over the next 12 months stakeholders: Torquay, Melbourne and Hastings. A fact sheet is likely to be bringing together data on the visitor experience has been prepared about the program as an update for and developing a levels of service approach, mapping participants. visitor sites, areas, journeys and waterway destinations. The CCB, particularly the Chair, participated on coastal Many lessons can be learned from Parks Victoria’s Visitor working groups and other opportunities including: Experience framework which applies to all Parks Victoria • Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan Reference managed areas. Group 3. Promote leadership, coordination and capacity building • the ABM and PPWCMA Day on the Bay for induction of for the coast newly elected councillors The CCB commenced planning to host a coastal forum • NCCARF’s workshop and introduction to the CoastAdapt during the year. A survey was used to determine interest in a website forum and to identify what stakeholders wanted to gain from • NSW Coastal Conference November 9–11 at Coffs Harbour it. The CCB is now progressing the arrangements for a one • Membership on a panel to review Port Phillip and day event to be held in November 2017. The target audience Westernport Catchment Management Authority’s will be coastal decision-makers and the people that influence (PPWCMA) Our Catchment our Community funding them. The CCB recognises the potential value of a forum held submissions in alternative years to the National Coast to Coast conference • The PPWCMA’s Knowledge Banquet and Leaders Forum. and hopes to establish this as a regular event for Victoria. It 4. Input to the Marine and Coastal Act Review has sought the services of an event organiser and its own The State Government’s election commitment for a new governance includes a steering group with representatives and more integrated MACA formed a major focus for the from key agencies to help plan the event. CCB in 2016–17. The CCB participated in the DELWP hosted The CCB continues to update its Communications Plan as an consultation sessions on the review held in Torquay and internal document to support its activities with stakeholders. St Kilda. The CCB Chair also participated in a Ministerial It publishes a regular newsletter, prepares a quarterly update Roundtable in March which provided a welcomed opportunity for the Minister and ensures its website includes ‘what’s new’. to ensure the Minister heard first-hand about issues on the This year the CCB published two discussion papers. The first coast that could be addressed by the reform program. drew attention to coastal erosion issues and the fact they will The CCB provided a comprehensive submission to the worsen with climate change impacts on the coast. The second DELWP MACA Consultation Paper. The CCB position is that prompted discussion and encouraged other stakeholders to the coast is one of our most valuable assets whose condition respond to the opportunities associated with the review of the and management is of emerging concern as it comes under Coastal Management Act 1995: increasing threat from population growth, natural processes • Collaroy – consequences and considerations for the and climate change impacts. While the CCB welcomes many Victorian Central Coast initiatives in the Consultation Paper, overall it believes more • Marine and Coastal Act Consultation Paper August 2016. could be done to deliver on longstanding issues such as The CCB is actively engaged in key strategic coastal issues funding for the coast and effective leadership to progress and this year prepared submissions to: change. • focus on the importance of the coast and opportunity 5. Meet other requirements of the Act to address longstanding issues through the Marine and The CCB submitted its three-year Business Plan to the Coastal Act Consultation Paper (see item 4) Council in 2016. It has submitted this year’s Annual Report • improve management for recreational boating through and held eight meetings during the year. CCB has undertaken comments on the Safe and Accessible Victorian Waterways an annual assessment of its performance. All members have Discussion Paper adopted the DELWP model policies and guidelines for good • support management of a catchment to coast continuum governance. and use of the State of the Bays reporting to inform 6.Implementation of the VCS 2014 management of marine ecosystems in a submission on The VCS Implementation Plan (April 2017) provides a progress the Draft Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan update compiled by DELWP on all actions in the VCS (see 2017–2027 DELWP website). It shows that most actions in the Strategy • recommend a regional coastal park and wider foreshore as are either complete or in progress. a buffer to climate change impacts on the coast in response The CRCP addresses many actions assigned to the RCBs to the draft Moolap Coastal Strategic Framework Plan including developing a Tourism and Visitation Framework to

16 provide strategic direction for how increasing tourism and While on Phillip Island the CCB heard about coastal erosion visitation will be experienced and managed along the coast. and protection at San Remo; Phillip Island Nature Park At a workshop to discuss the outstanding VCS actions it was Visitor Centre re-development; foreshore management noted that actions on wetlands and estuary management at Silverleaves; and the difficulties of establishing a Land and on water quality hotspots assigned to the RCBs Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) in a planning scheme are addressed in more detail in the Victorian Waterway that warns of the risks from climate change impacts. Management Strategy and the Port Phillip Bay Environmental The CCB’s meeting at Frankston provided opportunity Management Plan (due 2017) and updated SEPP. for a better understanding of the role of PPWCMA and an inspection of the Frankston foreshore with council staff to Implementation of RCP/CAPS discuss foreshore management issues related to the coastal Progress in implementing the CRCP 2015–2018 has been management plan; the use of planning overlays (e.g. Oliver’s considered in the section on progressing the CCB’s business Hill); long term dredging of Kananook Creek; and boat ramp plan. improvements. The Central Recreational Boating Facilities Framework On the Bellarine Peninsula, the CCB met with staff from (CRBFF) is integrated into the Regional Coastal Plan and Bellarine-Bayside and Barwon Coast Committees of replaces the Boating Coastal Action Plan 2007. It provides Management to hear about the need for an emergency/risk information on the current state and preferred future of management budget; increased coastal erosion impacts; and recreational boating facilities in the region. This year saw the legacy of previous planning decisions with development the release of DEDJTR’s Safe and Accessible Victorian sited too close to the coast. There is also the issue that the Waterways Discussion Paper and the CCB looks forward to Committee of Management does not receive a financial its development as a strategy to help prioritise investment in contribution from the City of Greater Geelong and its recreational boating infrastructure. The mid-year review of ratepayers for managing coastal facilities. the CRBFF has been deferred to next year. Other presentations received by the CCB were from the Working with Stakeholders Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Victoria on The Regional Coastal Board’s Partnership team continues the State of the Bays; DELWP on an update of the MACA to help co-ordinate the work of the three RCBs and that of review; DELWP on the Iconic Beaches Monitoring Program; the Council. DELWP provides briefings on key issues at CCB and Parks Victoria on its Visitor Experience Framework. meetings and regular updates on regional coastal activities. The National Coast to Coast conference was held in CCB meetings are also seen as opportunities to gain local Melbourne 29 August–1 September 2016. The CCB sponsored perspectives. Over the year the CCB scheduled its meetings the conference as a valuable opportunity to learn, share on Phillip Island, in Frankston and on the Bellarine Peninsula. and engage with some of the leading coastal thinkers and managers.

17 4.3 Gippsland Coastal Board (GCB) 1. Contribute to the protection of priority coastal values 4.3.1 The Gippsland Coastal Region The GCB continues to advocate and engage with stakeholders for the protection and enhancement of The Gippsland coastal region, from Anderson Inlet in the west Gippsland’s natural, social, economic and cultural values. A to the New South Wales border in the east of the state, covers GCB representative regularly participates in the quarterly 700 kilometres. It is home to thousands of residents living in or Coastal Agencies Liaison meetings and Corner Inlet near one of the many coastal towns and the iconic Gippsland Partnership meetings. Lakes. 2. Facilitate regional management of the coastal Gippsland’s coastal region includes three municipalities: environment and infrastructure South Gippsland Shire Council, Wellington Shire Council and The VCS 2014 recognises the need for strategic planning East Gippsland Shire Council. to address how increasing tourism and visitor use will be The Gippsland coast remains in a largely natural state, being experienced and managed along the coast. The Western, characterised by diverse natural environments which include Central and Gippsland regional coastal plans similarly important habitat for flora and fauna species protected by include actions to develop a visitation levels of service national parks, reserves and public foreshore land. Significant framework. The three RCBs are currently investigating options tourism and recreation destinations include Wilsons to develop such a framework that can be applied across Promontory National Park, Gippsland Lakes, Corner Inlet and Victoria’s coastal and marine areas. The purpose of this Ninety Mile Beach. framework is likely to be to: identify where visitation on the 4.3.2 GCB Membership coast can be encouraged and where access may need to The following GCB members were appointed on 22 September be managed or even reduced to protect fragile coastal and 2015 until 30 June 2018: marine areas. • Cr Dick Ellis – Chair Some background research and a report have been prepared • Joanne Andrews by GeoDimensions to inform the scope for this project. The • Allan Bawden report suggests it is important to rank and map priorities for • Michelle Dickson conservation, risk and recreation supply and demand. State- • Susan Lloyd wide mapping of coastal and marine assets and a second • Paul Smith pass coastal risk (impact) assessment are currently being • Rodney Thomas undertaken through DELWP’s Iconic Beaches Monitoring Program. This information will be made available via the 4.3.3 Key Projects DELWP website in late 2017. GCB Business Plan Progression The GCB’s three-year business plan reflects its objectives The current major gap in information relates to recreation under the Coastal Management Act 1995 and includes the supply and demand. Hence, the focus over the next 12 months actions to implement the Gippsland Regional Coastal Plan is likely to be bringing together data on the visitor experience 2015–2018 (GRCP). It identifies five key priorities which have and developing a levels of service approach, mapping been the focus for the GCB’s activities during the year. visitor sites, areas, journeys and waterway destinations. Many lessons can be learned from Parks Victoria’s Visitor Experience framework which applies to all Parks Victoria managed areas.

18 4. Adapting to climate change and increased coastal Implementation of the VCS 2014 hazards The VCS Implementation Plan (April 2017) provides a progress The State Government’s election commitment for a new and update compiled by DELWP on all actions in the VCS (see more integrated MACA formed a major focus for the GCB in DELWP website). It shows that most actions in the Strategy 2016–17. In October representatives from the GCB participated are either complete or in progress. in the DELWP hosted consultation sessions on the review, The GRCP addresses many actions assigned to the RCBs including sessions in Traralgon, Yarram and Lakes Entrance. including developing a Tourism and Visitation Framework to The GCB provided a submission to the MACA Consultation provide strategic direction for how increasing tourism and Paper as the review represented an important opportunity to visitation will be experienced and managed along the coast. provide clearer governance arrangements; consider a wide The CAPs also implement the VCS in the region, particularly range of impacts from climate change; and address some the Gippsland Boating CAP with its focus on boating precincts longstanding coastal issues. Of concern was the potential loss that help identify investment priorities. of a strong regional presence in coastal and marine planning. At a workshop to discuss the outstanding VCS actions it was The GCB Chair attended the Ministerial Roundtable in March noted that actions on wetlands and estuary management 2017 which provided an opportunity for the Minister to hear and on water quality hotspots assigned to the RCBs are from key stakeholders about issues that they hoped the addressed in more detail in other DELWP strategies and reform program would address. plans. A GCB member also attended the recent NCCARF Gippsland Implementation of RCP and CAPs Coastal Adaptation Workshop. In June, 2016 the GCB convened a GRCP Implementation 5. Leading in supporting communities to care for the coast Workshop to ensure that actions in the GRCP were still The GCB co-hosted information sessions with DELWP in relevant for partner agencies. Feedback from this session has February 2017 to inform the development of the ‘Protection of been used to develop a reporting framework for the GRCP. Victoria’s iconic beaches and coastline’ program which has The GCB continues to implement actions in the Gippsland funding of $21.4 million over 4 years. The sessions considered Boating CAP and consider issues such as sewerage pump out co-investment opportunities; a State-wide coastal asset and dredging. The review of this plan has been deferred to database; and greater emphasis on risk assessment to next year. The Estuaries CAP and Integrated Coastal Planning prioritise protection projects. The sessions were held in two CAP provide a useful planning framework. locations for Gippsland region stakeholders: Leongatha Working with Stakeholders and Bairnsdale. Both sessions provided important feedback The RCBs Partnership team continues to help co-ordinate for development of a Coastal Protection Guideline (in the work of the three RCBs and that of the Council. DELWP preparation) and ongoing involvement of communities to help provides briefings on key issues at meetings and regular monitor selected coastal sites. updates on state wide coastal activities. The GCB is planning to host a two-day stakeholder forum in The GCB’s coastal liaison activities promote networking, partnership with Gippsland Lakes Co-ordinating Committee knowledge exchange and community participation. GCB in the next financial year. The focus of this event is to inspire; meetings are opportunities to gain local perspectives and inform; build coastal networks; and highlight the key local over the past year the GCB scheduled its meetings in different issues along the Gippsland coast. The event will include locations across the Gippsland region including Lakes several keynote speakers, field trips, presentations and panel Entrance, Bairnsdale and Traralgon. discussions. During November 2016, GCB hosted a joint meeting with the The GCB website has been improved during the year and Council to enhance relationships and highlight important new security measures put in place so that it can continue issues facing the Gippsland area. Held in Lakes Entrance, the to provide a useful communication tool for the GCB, its meeting included several field sites where speakers provided stakeholders and community groups. information on local issues. 6. Practising good governance The GCB has included a variety of stakeholders to present The GCB submitted its three-year Business Plan to the at their meetings including Stephen Chapple and Darren Council in 2016. It has submitted this year’s Annual Report James from DELWP, Bob Itami and Andrew Marshall from and held six meetings during the year. All members have GeoDimensions and Nick Murray from Gippsland Ports. adopted the DELWP model policies and guidelines for good governance.

19 5. Operations

5.1 Contact 5.3 Statement of Pecuniary Interests Council’s office is located at 8 Nicholson Street, East All members of the Council and the Executive Officer have Melbourne, 3002. completed declarations of pecuniary interest for the current The postal address for the Council is PO Box 500, East reporting period including details of shares held by members. Melbourne, 8002. 5.4 Consultancies over $10,000 Telephone: 03 9637 8893 In 2016–17 the Council engaged three consultancies to Email: [email protected] complete work valued over $10,000. Website: www.vcc.vic.gov.au • Intellagama Pty Ltd for the preparation of the Council submission to the Marine and Coastal Act Consultation 5.2 Workforce Data Paper; $14,520 (including GST) On 30 June 2017: • Intellagama Pty Ltd for strategic advice and to support • The Council employed 4 staff (2.5 full time equivalent), implementation of initiatives in the VCS; $62,040 (including compared to 4 staff (3.6 full time equivalent) on 30 June GST) 2016. • Futureye Pty Ltd to develop the Communications, Advocacy • The proportion of women was 60 %, compared to 100 % on and Engagement Strategy for the Council; $33,467 30 June 2016. (including GST). Employees have been correctly classified in workforce data collections. 5.5 Consultancies under $10,000 In 2016–17 the Council engaged seven consultancies to deliver Table 3: Staff Numbers by employment status as at 30 June 2017 work valued under $10,000. (full time equivalent) • Judy Bennett Design for design and layout of the Council Employment 2016–2017 2015–2016 Business Plan 2015–2018; $1,232 (including GST) Type Female Male Total Female Male Total • Futures by Design for editing of the Council Annual Report Executive Officers 0.5 0 0.5 1.0 0 1.0 2015–16; $550 (including GST) • Judy Bennett Design for design and printing of the Council Senior Managers 0.4 1.0 1.4 2.0 0 2.0 Annual Report 2015–16; $1,842.50 (including GST) Administration 0.6 0 0.6 0.6 0 0.6 • Green Scribble for design for the submission to the Marine Staff and Coastal Act Consultation Paper; $1,331 (including GST) Field Staff 0 0 0 0 0 0 • Mity Digital for updating the website for the Coast to Coast Total 1.5 1.0 2.5 3.6 0 3.6 conference; $385 (including GST) • BabelFishGroup for facilitation of a Council executive Fixed Term* 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.6 0 2.6 forum; $8,250 (including GST) Temporary 1.0 0 1.0 1 0 1 • RustyBrown Consulting for facilitation of the Science Panel Employees meeting on 21 September 2016; $5,170 (including GST). Total 1.5 1.0 2.5 3.6 0 3.6 5.6 Major Contracts Notes: During 2016–17 the Council did not enter into any contracts • All figures reflect employment levels during the last full pay period valued over $10 million. in June of each year. • Excluded are those on leave without pay or absent on 5.7 Government Advertising Expenditure secondment and external contractors/consultants. Government policy requires disclosure of all Government • Ongoing employees includes people engaged on an open ended Advertising Expenditure with a total media buy of $150,000 contract of employment and executives engaged on a standard or greater (exclusive of GST). No Government Advertising executive contract who were active in the last full pay period of Expenditure was incurred by the Council during the reporting June. period. • Fixed term staff were seconded from DELWP for the 2016–17 year.

20 5.8 National Competition Policy Please note that the Council is not able to receive protected The Council adheres to the principles of the National disclosures. Competition Policy (NCP) to ensure that any business How can I access the Council’s procedures for the competition with private entities takes place in an protection of persons from detrimental action? environment where the Council has no competitive Contact: advantages. Independent Board-Based Anti-Corruption Commission 5.9 Freedom of Information (FOI) (IBAC) Victoria The Freedom of Information Act 1982 allows the public a right Address: Level 1, North Tower, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne, of access to documents held by the Council. The Council Victoria, 3000. operates in accordance with FOI procedures established Mail: IBAC, GPO Box 24234, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001 through the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. Requests must be in writing and a fee of $28.40 is Internet: www.ibac.vic.gov.au payable for applications. There was no FOI request made to Phone: 1300 735 135 the Council in 2016–17. Email: see the website above for the secure email disclosure The Council has determined that its authorised officer is process, which also provides for anonymous disclosures. the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Freedom of Information Unit – Email: [email protected] 5.13 Overseas Travel Tel: 03 9637 8331 No overseas travel was conducted in 2016–17. 5.10 Public Administration Employment and 5.14 Building Act 1993 Conduct Principles To perform its functions, the Council makes use of buildings and facilities controlled by DELWP. The Council does not own Consistent with requirements of the Public Administration Act or control any buildings. 2004, the Council has adopted a range of policies designed to promote good governance in all its decision making 5.15 Occupational Health and Safety Policy and operations. These policies comprise: Code of Conduct; Operations are managed in accordance with DELWP Conflict of Interest; Dispute Resolution; Gifts, Benefits and procedures and guidelines for occupational health and Hospitality; Meetings and Decision Making; and Performance safety, industrial relations, and related issues (refer to DELWP Assessment. Annual Report). 5.11 Women, Youth and Indigenous Affairs 5.16 Risk Management The Council is committed to involving Victoria’s community, While the Council examines the risks associated with the including women, youth and Aboriginal Victorians in the delivery of its work functions and objectives on an ongoing management and enjoyment of the coast. The VCS 2014 basis, it relies on DELWP’s risk management framework and identifies actions to implement indigenous cultural outcomes internal audit of financial and other administrative systems and to improve communications with Aboriginal communities which are used by the Council’s Secretariat. Please refer to in coastal areas. Council’s Business Plan includes actions to the DELWP Annual Report for further information. strengthen community involvement in coastal planning and management and the Council operates in an environment 5.17 Compliance with DataVic Access Policy which ensures equity of processes and participation by Consistent with the Victorian Government’s DataVic Access stakeholders. policy, the Council intends that data tables which it may produce in the future will be available at: http://data.vic.gov. 5.12 Protected Disclosures Act 2012 au/ in machine readable format. The Protected Disclosures Act 2012 enables people to make disclosures about improper conduct by public officers 5.18 Summary of Environmental Performance and public bodies. The Act aims to ensure openness and The Victorian Government’s aim of improved environmental accountability by encouraging people to make disclosures management is supported by a requirement that and protecting them when they do. Departments disclose their ongoing performance in managing and reducing the environmental impacts of their What is a ‘protected disclosure’? office-based activities. The Council makes use of DELWP A protected disclosure is a complaint of corrupt or improper offices and facilities to perform its functions and the reporting conduct by a public officer or public body. requirement of the office is met by DELWP. The Council The Council is a “public body” for the purposes of the Act. Secretariat participates fully in a range of environmental programs operating within DELWP, including: What is ‘improper or corrupt conduct’? Improper or corrupt conduct involves substantial: • separation of reusable, recyclable, compostable and landfill waste • mismanagement of public resources; or • use of Green power • risk to public health or safety or the environment; or • use of flow restricted taps and waterless urinals • corruption. • use of recycled paper and duplex printing How do I make a ‘Protected Disclosure’? • environmentally sustainable fitouts; and A protected disclosure about the Council, a Council member, • regular use by staff of public transport, cycling or walking to or DELWP employees can be made by contacting the and from work. Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) on the contact details provided below.

21 5.19 Statement of Availability of Other 5.21 Local Jobs First – Victorian Industry Information Participation Policy Additional information included in Annual Report During the year, Council did not enter into any contracts to Details in respect of the following items have been included in which the Local Job First – Victorian Industry Participation this report: Policy applied. • Details of publications produced and how these may be 5.22 Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Attestation obtained • Details of major research and developments undertaken Attestation by public entities in Department • Details of major promotional, public relations and of Environment Land, Water and Planning’s marketing activities undertaken to develop community portfolio awareness of the entity and its services I, Dr Anthony Boxshall, Chair of the Victorian • Details of overseas visits undertaken • Assessments and measures undertaken to improve the Coastal Council occupational health and safety of employees Certify that: • A list of the Council’s committees • my public entity has policies and procedures in place • A statement of completion of declarations of pecuniary that are consistent with the minimum requirements interests and accountabilities outlined in the Gifts, Benefits • A declaration of shares held by Council members and and Hospitality Policy Framework issued by the Public senior officers Sector Standards Commissioner; The following information is not relevant to Council: • staff are informed about these gifts, benefits and • Details of changes in prices, fees, charges, and levies hospitality policies and procedures; and charged • Council reviews the operation of the policies and • A statement on industrial relations procedures at least once a year to ensure transparent • Details of any major external reviews carried out by Council. reporting of accepted gifts, benefits and hospitality. 5.20 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Expenditure The Council falls under the umbrella of DELWP in relation to ICT and the provision of business ICT services. Please refer to Signature Date: 07 August 2017 DELWP Annual Report 2016–17.

22 6. Council expenditure

6.1 Expenditure 6.2.2 Statement of Availability of Other Information Council’s operating budget is provided within the budget of Information relevant to the headings listed in Financial DELWP. Financial operations of the Council have not been Reporting Direction 22H of the Financial Management Act separately audited. Audited statements are incorporated into 1994 is held at the Council’s office and is available on request, the overall financial statements of the DELWP Annual Report subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982. for the year ended 30 June, 2017. It is considered unnecessary 6.2.3 Significant Changes in Financial Position for Council to retain a separate audit committee. During the Year The following table shows the operating expenditure of the There were no significant changes in financial position during Council for the 2016–17 financial year (excluding salaries the reporting period. and agency staff costs) and provides a comparison with the previous four financial years. 6.2.4 Major Changes or Factors Affecting Performance 6.2 Operating Position There were no major changes affecting performance. 6.2.1 Summary of Financial Results of the Year 6.2.5 Subsequent Events Financial Year Council operations * There were no events subsequent to the balance date that will 2012–2013 $197,390 affect performance in future years. $199,202 2013–2014 6.2.6 Victorian Industry Participation Policy 2014–2015 $244,500 Departments and public bodies are required to apply VIPP in 2015–2016 $276,703 all tenders over $3 million in metropolitan Melbourne and $1 2016–2017 $334,661 million in regional Victoria. The Council has not commenced or completed any contract in 2016–17 to which VIPP applies.

23 7. Disclosure Index

The 2016–167 Annual Report of the Victorian Coastal Council is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the VCC compliance with statutory disclosure requirements. FRD – Financial Reporting Direction SD – Standing Direction MRO – Model report of operations

Legislation Requirement Page no. Accountable Officer’s declaration SD 5.2.3 Sign off requirements 2 Charter and purpose FRD 22H Objectives, functions, powers and duties 5, 11 FRD 22H Manner of establishment and responsible Minister 5 FRD 22H Nature and range of services provided 5 Financial information FRD 22H Operational and budgetary objectives 20 FRD 22H Summary of the financial results 23 FRD 22H Major changes or factors affecting performance 23 FRD 22H Subsequent events 23 FRD 22H Significant changes in financial position during the year 23 Governance and organisational structure FRD 22H Organisational structure 6, 9 FRD 22H Occupational health and safety policy 21 FRD 22H Employment and conduct principles 21 FRD 22H & 29B Workforce Data disclosures 20

Other information FRD 10A Disclosure index 24 FRD 25C Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 23 FRD 22H Details of consultancies in excess of $10 000 20 FRD 22H Details of consultancies under $10 000 20 FRD 22H Disclosure of government advertising expenditure 20 FRD 12B Disclosure of major contracts 20 FRD 22H Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 21 FRD 22H Compliance with Building Act 1993 21 FRD 22H Statement on National Competition Policy 21 FRD 22H Application and operation of Protected Disclosures Act 2012 21 FRD 22H Summary of environmental performance 21 FRD 22H Statement of availability of other information 22 SD 3.7.1 Risk management compliance attestation 21 MRO DataVic Access Policy 21 FRD 22H Gifts, benefits and hospitality attestation 22

Legislation Coastal Management Act 1995 Financial Management Act 1994 Public Administration Act 2004 Print and design FRD 30D Standard requirements for the design and print of annual reports

24 8. Appendix A: Coastal Management Plans

Table 1: Coastal Management Plans Approved in 2016–17 Title of Coastal Management Plan Responsible Agent GIPPSLAND COASTAL BOARD REGION None CENTRAL COASTAL BOARD REGION Frankston City Foreshore Coastal Management Plan 2016 Frankston City Council Capel Sound Foreshore Coastal Management Plan 2016 Capel Sound Foreshores Reserve CoM /DELWP WESTERN COASTAL BOARD REGION None

Table 2: Other Coastal Plans Gippsland Coastal Board Region Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent Andersons Inlet Fisheries Reserve Management Plan Implementation DELWP, Fisheries Victoria Bemm River Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Cape Howe Marine National Park Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Corner Inlet Marine National Park Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria East Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy Implementation East Gippsland CMA Lakes Entrance Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Lake Tyers Beach Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP Lake Wellington Wetlands Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Loch Sport Crown Reserves Management Plan Implementation DELWP/CoM Mallacoota Inlet Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Marlay Point Foreshore Reserve Management Plan Implementation DELWP Marlo Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Metung Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Newlands Arm Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/EGSC Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Point Hicks Marine National Park Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Port Franklin Reserves Management Plan Implementation DELWP/CoM Sandy Point Foreshore Management Plan Implementation DELWP/CoM Shallow Inlet Foreshore Management Plan Draft DELWP/CoM Walkerville Foreshore Coastal Management Plan Implementation DELWP / COM West Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy 2013–2019 Implementation West Gippsland CMA Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park Management Plan Implementation Parks Victoria Woodside Beach Foreshore Management Plan Implementation. DELWP/CoM

Central Coastal Board Region Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent Anderson Inlet Fisheries Reserve Management Plan 2006 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Avalon Beach Management Plan (Draft) 2001 Implementation DELWP Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary Management Plan 2007 Implementation Parks Victoria Barwon Coast Coastal Management Plan 2013/14 to 2015/16 Implementation Barwon Coast Committee of Management Bayside Coastal Management Plan 2014 Implementation Bayside City Council Black Rock – Beaumaris Foreshore Master Plan 2000 Implementation Bayside City Council Breamlea Foreshore Masterplan and Management Plan Update 2010 Implementation City of Greater Geelong Brighton Foreshore Master Plan 1999 Implementation Bayside City Council Buckley Park Coastal Management Plan Vegetation Strategy 2005 Implementation City of Greater Geelong Bunurong Marine National Park Management Plan 2006 Implementation Parks Victoria Cannons Creek Foreshore Reserve Draft Management Plan 2012 Implementation Cannons Creek Foreshores Reserve CoM Cape Paterson Foreshore Reserve Management Plan 1998 Implementation Bass Coast Shire Council Clifton Springs Coastal Management Plan 2008 Implementation City of Greater Geelong Parks Victoria & Mornington Peninsula Shire Collins Settlement Future Directions Management Plan 2002 Implementation Council Corangamite Fishery Management Plan 2008 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Corinella Foreshore Reserve Management Plan 2015 Implementation DELWP Draft Green Point Precinct Landscape Conservation Management Plan 2012 (now Implementation Bayside City Council part of the wider Bayside Coastal Management Plan 2014) Draft Ricketts Point and Ricketts Point Landside Management Plan 2013 (now part Implementation Bayside City Council of the wider Bayside Coastal Management Plan 2014) Draft Rye Recreational Boating Precinct Master Plan 2013 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Dromana Foreshore Coastal Management Plan 2010 Review Dromana Foreshore CoM & DELWP Eastern Port Phillip Bay Aquaculture Fisheries Management Plan 2005 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria

Continued overleaf 25 Table 2: Other Coastal Plans continued

Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent Flinders Aquaculture Fisheries Reserve Management Plan 2005 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Flinders Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2010 Implementation Parks Victoria Flinders Pier Master Plan 2008 Implementation Parks Victoria Foreshore Management Plan 2011 (City of Port Phillip) 2012 Implementation City of Port Phillip French Island National Park Management Plan 1998 Implementation Parks Victoria Geelong Arm Aquaculture Fisheries Reserve Management Plan 2005 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Halfmoon Bay Master Plan 2008 Implementation Bayside City Council Hampton Foreshore Master Plan 1997 Implementation Bayside City Council Hastings South Coastal Management Plan 2015 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Hastings South Coastal Management Plan & Recreational Boating Precinct 2008 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Jawbone Marine Sanctuary Management Plan 2007 Implementation Parks Victoria Kingston Coastal Management Plan Implementation Kingston City Council Kingston Coastal Management Plan 2015 Implementation Kingston City Council Lang Lang Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2012 Implementation DELWP Limeburners Bay Management Plan Stage 2 Review 2008 Implementation City of Greater Geelong Merricks Beach Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2012 Draft Merricks Beach Foreshore CoM & DELWP Mills Beach Landscape Masterplan 2012 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Mordialloc Creek Masterplan 2012 Implementation Kingston City Council Mordialloc: Pride of the Bay Structure Plan 2004 Implementation Kingston City Council Mornington Coastal Management Plan Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Mornington Harbour Precinct Plan 2013 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Mornington Peninsula National Park and Arthurs Seat State Park Management Implementation Parks Victoria Plan 1998 Mount Eliza Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2004 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Mount Martha Coastal Management Plan 2008 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary Management Plan 2007 Implementation Parks Victoria Phillip Island Nature Parks Strategic Plan 2012–17 Implementation Phillip Island Nature Parks Board of Management Pinnace Channel Aquaculture Fisheries Reserve Management Plan 2005 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Point Cook Coastal Park and Cheetham Wetlands Future Directions Plan 2005 Implementation Parks Victoria Point Cooke Marine Sanctuary Management Plan 2007 Implementation Parks Victoria Point Henry Foreshore Management Plan 2006 Implementation City of Greater Geelong Point Leo Coastal Management Plan 2012 Draft Point Leo Foreshore CoM & DELWP Point Lonsdale Foreshore Master Plan 2009 Implementation Borough of Queenscliffe & Greater Geelong Point Nepean National Park and Point Nepean Quarantine Station Management Implementation Parks Victoria Plan 2009 Point Nepean National Park Master Plan 2013 Implementation Parks Victoria Port Phillip (Western Shoreline) & Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar Site Strategic Implementation Parks Victoria & DELWP Management Plan 2003 Port Phillip and Western Port Fisheries Management Plan 2009 Implementation DPI Fisheries Victoria Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park Management Plan 2006 Implementation Parks Victoria Portarlington Safe Harbour Master Plan 2009 Implementation Parks Victoria Portsea Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2004 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Queenscliffe Coastal Management Plan 2006 Implementation Borough of Queenscliffe Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary Management Plan 2005 Implementation Parks Victoria Rosebud Activity Centre Structure Plan 2012 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Rosebud Activity Centre Urban Design Framework 2012 2012 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Rosebud Coastal Management Plan 2012 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Rosebud Foreshore Coastal Management Plan Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Rye Foreshore Reserve Landscape Master Plan 2008 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire Safety and Environment Management Plan for the local port of Western Port 2005 Implementation Parks Victoria San Remo Foreshore Reserve Management Plan 2010 Implementation DELWP Sandringham Foreshore Coastal Management Plan 2010 Implementation Bayside City Council, DELWP, Parks Victoria Sandringham Foreshore Master Plan and Management Plan 1998 Implementation Bayside City Council Seaford Life Saving Club Precinct Master Plan 2004 Implementation Frankston City Council Shoreham Foreshore Reserve Management Plan 2008 Implementation Shoreham Foreshore CoM & DELWP Somers Foreshore Reserve Management Plan 2011 Implementation Parks Victoria Sorrento Recreational Boating Precinct Plan 2011 Implementation Mornington Peninsula Shire South Channel Fort Conservation Management Plan – Part 1 & 2 2006 Implementation Parks Victoria St Kilda Harbour Concept Plan 2010 Implementation Parks Victoria St Kilda Pier Conservation Management Plan 2004 Implementation Parks Victoria Stony Point and Hastings Foreshore Management Plan 2001 Implementation Foreshore CoM Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of The Northern Bellarine Foreshore Plan 2012 Implementation Management Tooradin Foreshore and Boating Infrastructure Master Plan 2009 Implementation Tooradin Foreshore CoM & DELWP Truganina Explosives Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2013 Draft City of Hobsons Bay Victorian Wild Harvest Abalone Fishery Management Plan 2014 Implementation DEDJTR Fisheries Victoria

Continued next page 26 Table 2: Other Coastal Plans continued

Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent Victorian Eel Fishery Management Plan 2002 Implementation DEDJTR Fisheries Victoria Victorian Giant Crab Fishery Management Plan 2003 Implementation DEDJTR Fisheries Victoria Victorian Rock Lobster Fishery Management Plan 2009 Implementation DEDJTR Fisheries Victoria Warneet Foreshore Coastal Management Plan 2012 Implementation Warneet Foreshore Reserve CoM Western Port Marine National Parks Management Plan (Yaringa, French Island & Implementation Parks Victoria Churchill Island) 2007 Western Port Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan 2003 Implementation Parks Victoria Whitecliffs to Camerons Bight Foreshore Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2012 Implementation Whitecliffs to Camerons Bight Foreshore CoM Williamstown Foreshore Strategic Plan 2010 Implementation Parks Victoria

Western Coastal Board Region Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent A Guide to the Management of Native Fish: Victorian Coastal Rivers and Corangamite CMA on behalf of five coastal CMAs and Completed Wetlands Melbourne Water Apollo Bay Settlement Boundary and Urban Design Review Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Apollo Bay Structure Plan – (GORRS Funded) Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Apollo Bay Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C55 Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Colac Otway Shire Council on behalf of the Barwon Barwon South West Regional Trails Master Plan Implementation South West Region Belfast Lough Environmental Management Plan 2006 On hold Moyne Shire Council Bells Beach Surfing Recreation Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2015–2018 Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Bells Beach Surfing Recreation Reserve Implementation Plan 2015–2018 Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Bridgewater Bay Foreshore Master Plan Implementation Glenelg Shire Council Coastal Management Plan 2013 Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation (Coastal Commenced Corangamite Shire Council Spaces Funded via ESAS) Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation (Coastal Complete Surf Coast Shire Council Spaces Funded via ESAS) Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study and GOR Region Landscape Completed Moyne Shire Council Assessment Study – PSE Implementation C21 (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS) Colac Otway Shire Public Open Space Plan Implementation Colac Otway Shire Council Colac Otway Shire Rural Living Study Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Colac Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C55 (Coastal Spaces Funded via Completed Colac Otway Shire Council RDV) Corangamite Fishery Management Plan Ongoing DELWP Corangamite Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Strategy Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Native Vegetation Plan Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Region Wetland Strategy Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy 2013–2019 (RCS) Commenced Corangamite CMA Corangamite Regional River Health Strategy (2006–2011) and Addendum Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Salinity Action Plan Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Soil Health Strategy Completed Corangamite CMA Corangamite Waterway Strategy 2014–22 Implementation Corangamite CMA Draft report Cultural Heritage Management Plan Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management completed Curdies River Estuary Management Plan Completed Corangamite and Moyne Shire Councils Deep Creek Master Plan Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Discovery Bay Marine National Park Management Plan Completed Parks Victoria Environment and Land Management Plan Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Anglesea River and Estuary Management Plan 2012–2020 Implementation Corangamite CMA Anglesea Riverbank Master Plan Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Apollo Bay Harbour Master Plan Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve Master Plan In progress Otway Coast Committee Environmental Sustainability Strategy Completed Moyne Shire Council Fitzroy Estuary Management Plan Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Flood Study for Port Fairy Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA and Moyne Shire Council Futurescapes – Climate Change Demonstrator Project Completed Glenelg Shire Council Glenelg Environment Strategy Completed Glenelg Shire Council Glenelg Hopkins Fishery Management Plan Completed DELWP Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg Hopkins River Health Strategy 2004–2009 Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg River Estuary Management Plan Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan Completed Glenelg Shire Council GOR Region Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation C55 (Coastal Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Spaces Funded via ESAS) Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Coastal Management Plan 2013 Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Strategic Master Plan for the Great Ocean Road Region Visitor Economy 2015– Implementation Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Ltd 2025

Continued overleaf 27 Table 2: Other Coastal Plans continued

Title of Plan Status Responsible Agent Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park Management Plan Completed Parks Victoria Hopkins River Estuary Management Plan Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Indigenous Cultural Heritage Conservation Manual Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Indigenous Partnership Strategy Completed Parks Victoria Framlingham Aboriginal Trust and Winda Mara Kooyang Sea Country Completed Aboriginal Corporation Local Coastal Hazard Assessment Port Fairy Completed Moyne Shire Council and DELWP Lorne Central Foreshore Masterplan Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Completed Parks Victoria Merri Estuary Management Plan Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Merri Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Completed Parks Victoria Narrawong Coastal Engineering Study Completed Glenelg Shire Council New Corangamite Waterway Strategy (CWS) for the health of rivers, estuaries Commenced Corangamite CMA and wetlands Gunditjmara Traditional Owners, Parks Victoria, Ngootyoong Gunditj Ngootyoong Mara South West Management Plan Implementation DELWP Open Space Strategy 2015–25 Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Otway Coast Committee Coastal Management Plan 2013 Implementation Otway Coast Committee of Management Painkalac Creek Environmental Flow Determination Completed Corangamite CMA Painkalac Creek Estuary Management Plan Completed Surf Coast Shire Council Pathway Pathway strategy 2012 Surf Coast Shire Council strategy 2006 Peterborough UDG Amendment – PSA Implementation C29 Completed Moyne Shire Council Point Addis Marine National Park, Point Danger Marine Sanctuary and Eagle Completed Parks Victoria Rock Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Point Danger Coastal Management Plan In progress Point Danger Committee of Management Point Grey and Slaughterhouse Master Plan In progress Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Pollution Source Investigation for Lorne (Erskine River) In progress Surf Coast Shire Council Port Fairy Coastal and Structure Plan In progress Moyne Shire Council Port Fairy East Beach Coastal Erosion Engineering and Feasibility Study Completed Moyne Shire Council and DELWP Port Fairy Night Soil Site Management Plan Completed DELWP Port of Portland Marine Master Plan Completed Glenelg Shire Council Portland Bay Coastal Engineering Study Completed Glenelg Shire Council Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan Completed Glenelg Shire Council Public Portland Coastal Management Plan Glenelg Shire Council consultation Portland Foreshore Master Plan On hold Glenelg Shire Council Princetown Urban Design Framework – Urban Futures Consulting Completed Corangamite Shire Council Princetown Urban Design Framework (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV) Completed Corangamite Shire Council Parks Victoria, Corangamite Shire, Moyne Shire, Shipwreck Coast Master Plan Implementation Tourism Victoria South Warrnambool Crown Land Precinct Master Plan Completed Warrnambool City Council South Warrnambool Flood Study Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Sturgess Point/Beacon Point Geotechnical Investigation, Port Campbell Completed DELWP Surry Estuary Management Plan Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA Surry River Flood Study Completed Glenelg Hopkins CMA The Crags Management Plan Completed Moyne Shire Council The future of Surf Life Saving in the Surf Coast Shire Implementation Surf Coast Shire Council Torquay Foreshore Master Plan Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Torquay North Outline Development Plan Completed Surf Coast Shire Council Sustainable Futures Plan Torquay – Jan Juc 2040 Final draft Surf Coast Shire Council

Torquay/Jan Juc Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C37 (Coastal Spaces Completed Surf Coast Shire Council Funded via RDV) Tower Hill Design Guidelines (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV) In progress Moyne Shire Council Twelve Apostles Marine National Park and The Arches Marine Sanctuary Completed Parks Victoria Management Plan Warrnambool City Council Coastal Management Plan Implementation Warrnambool City Council Draft for Warrnambool Foreshore Precinct Framework Plan Warrnambool City Council consultation Warrnambool Safer Harbour Study Completed Warrnambool City Council Water Supply Demand Strategy 2012–2062 Completed Wannon Water Weed Control and Native Vegetation Action Plan Implementation Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management Wye River/Sep Creek/Kennett River Structure Plan Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Wye River/Sep Creek/Kennett River Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C58 Completed Colac Otway Shire Council (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS) Yambuk Lake Estuary Management Plan Complete Glenelg Hopkins CMA

28 9. Abbreviations and Acronyms

CAP Coastal Action Plan CCB Central Coastal Board CMA Catchment Management Authority CoM Committee of Management Council Victorian Coastal Council DELWP Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning EPA Environment Protection Authority FRD Financial Reporting Direction FOI Freedom of Information GCB Gippsland Coastal Board IBAC Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission LSIO Land Subject to Inundation Overlay MACA Marine and Coastal Act MAV Municipal Association of Victoria NCCARF National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility NCP National Competition Policy PPWCMA Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority RCB Regional Coastal Board RCP Regional Coastal Plan SD Standing Direction SPPF State Planning Policy Framework VCS Victorian Coastal Strategy VIPP Victorian Industry Participation Policy WCB Western Coastal Board

29 Victorian Coastal Council PO Box 500 East Melbourne Vic 8002 Telephone: (03) 9637 8893 Email: [email protected] Web: www.vcc.vic.gov.au

www.vcc.vic.gov.au 30