Policies and initiatives > Direction 3. Networks with the regional cities > Policy 3.1

Policy 3.1– Promote the growth of regional cities and key towns on regional transport corridors as part of a networked cities model

The major regional centres close to metropolitan Melbourne (Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and the towns of the Latrobe Valley) will become the focus for accelerated development to encourage the concept of networked cities. The Government will plan for and support these cities as viable alternative locations to metropolitan Melbourne in which to live, work, run businesses and relax.

The Latrobe Valley has already been the focus of Government action through the Latrobe Valley Ministerial Taskforce. The Framework for the future report primarily provides direction for improving the economic prospects of the Latrobe Valley. This was a special case of assistance required to redress significant social and economic issues brought about by severe economic restructuring. However, the example of State and local government and communities working together to achieve better overall outcomes for Victoria can be used in regional planning in all areas.

Regional planning for the areas around the regional cities needs to ensure that infra-structure services are in place so that these cities and their surrounding regions will be able to take advantage of opportunities for growth that will accrue from improved linkages to metropolitan Melbourne.

Issues to be considered will include:

• ensuring that new development is supported by strong transport links that provide an appropriate choice of travel consistent with Melbourne 2030 principles, and by providing strong communications links
• limiting the impact of urban development on non-urban areas and supporting development in those urban areas that can accommodate growth
• developing and reinforcing the distinctive roles and character of each city
• fostering the development of towns around the regional cities that are on regional transport routes.

Planning in and around the regional centres will be done in partnership with local councils and other key stakeholders. The planning process will be designed to include substantial community involvement.

Figure 32. Regional cities and townships - click for more detail

Towns on and around the improved regional transport network may come under more pressure for commuter or lifestyle-related development. That pressure will be focused on towns that are best able to accommodate increased growth, while also protecting conservation and heritage values and the surrounding natural resource base. These key towns will already have the necessary physical, social and cultural infrastructure to support expanded populations and provide local employment opportunities, or they will be able to accommodate it. The Government will work with local councils in the transport corridors to identify the key towns and plan for their future development.

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