Moyne Shire Council

## Moyne Shire Council Planning Department Analysis **Moyne Shire operates as a pragmatic rural council** with a measured approach to development, balancing growth targets with strong coastal and heritage character protection. The council demonstrates a **"manage growth" philosophy** rather than aggressive development promotion, particularly evident in their careful handling of Port Fairy's coastal character alongside designated growth objectives. **Processing times tend to be slower than metropolitan councils** due to limited staffing resources typical of rural shires and the complex overlay considerations around coastal areas and heritage precincts. Pre-application meetings are highly recommended given the council's detailed assessment requirements for developments near sensitive coastal and heritage zones. **Common delays include heritage advisor consultations** and coastal character assessments, particularly for developments in or near Port Fairy's heritage precinct. The council is known for thorough RFIs regarding neighbourhood character compliance and vegetation protection, reflecting their commitment to preserving rural and coastal landscapes. **The planning department operates with typical rural shire resource constraints** but maintains consistent policy interpretation, particularly around protecting minimal change areas like coastal zones and rural farmland. They're **strategically supportive of appropriate infill development** in designated growth towns (Port Fairy, Koroit, Mortlake, Hawkesdale) while remaining strict on developments that compromise heritage or coastal character values.