Victorians say 'lazy planning' leading to poor social housing outcomes

Central Victorian traditional owner group Djaara plans to construct 34 social housing units for 75 residents in the regional city of Bendigo. Neighbors claim that the state's fast-tracked planning process allows the Djaara to bypass local councils and residents in the planning process, leading to what they call "lazy planning." Djaara proposes one and two-story houses on the site of the former North Bendigo Primary School, with construction expected to commence in mid-2026 and conclude by the end of 2028.

Residents argue that Victorians ought to be able to question planning applications, including objecting to conditions if they disagree with the proposed developments. Ben Pengilley, a resident of North Bendigo, expressed concern about the lack of a transparent process and the potential impact on his neighborhood. He lamented that a site slated as parkland in a 2019 public space plan by the Victorian government had been repurposed for social housing without adequate consultation.

The recent $21.6 million allocation from the Victorian government appears insufficient to address the residents' issues. The Department of Education and Training's land reassignment has raised questions about transparency and adherence to the public space plan. Mr Pengilley's neighbor, Michael Jurca, pointed out the parking challenges already faced by Barney Street, which is already congested with Bendigo Health workers.

The Development Facilitation Program, a government initiative intended to expedite priority projects, has been criticized for stripping residents and local councils of their right to object through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. Djaara's Transport Impact Assessment (TIA) relies on a non-Victorian traffic management plan, according to Pengilley, further casting doubt on the planning process.

The City of Greater Bendigo has expressed support for the application but needs more time to evaluate the site's environmental constraints and remediation requirements. Djaara's acting chief executive officer, Harley Douglas, stated that his organization would review any submitted submissions and respond accordingly.

The Coalition, if elected in November, intends to return planning powers to local councils and allow residents to voice their opinions on planning matters. However, it remains unclear whether the Coalition would abolish the Development Facilitation Program or restore the right to appeal to residents and councils.