Mitchell Shire councillors are advocating for reform in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal decision-making process.
Councillors are calling on the Minister for Planning and president of VCAT for change including the use of a three-member panel for review when a council decision occurs by unanimous vote.
“This panel approach ensures a more comprehensive and balanced assessment of the case,” Cr Nathan Clark’s motion stated.
“The use of a panel would allow for diverse perspectives, expertise, and thorough consideration of all relevant factors. The use of a panel eliminates the problem of introducing a single point of failure.”
Cr Clark’s motion also sought inclusion of dissenting opinions if there was a minority dissenting opinion within the aforementioned panel.
“If there is a minority dissenting opinion within the panel, it should be explicitly documented and presented as part of the final VCAT decision,” it stated.
The notice of motion was passed unanimously at MSC’s March 18 ordinary meeting with plenty of discussion.
“We’ve had a number of really critical issues (before VCAT),” Cr Bill Chisholm said.
He referred to a Tootle Street, Kilmore, housing development about three kilometres from the centre of the town.
Cr Chisholm said the outcome for residents in the long term would be really poor, with “a whole heap of units” being allowed.
“VCAT is the bane of our life,” Cr Rob Eldridge said, claiming the council often makes sound planning decisions yet has them overturned.
Cr Annie Goble said councillors had local knowledge, and it was frustrating when a single member overturned a unanimous decision and paves the way for developers to go ahead.
She supported the idea of advocating for change with other councils.
