Draft_VCS-2013

VICTORIAN
COASTAL
STRATEGY
2013
DRAFT
SEPTEMBER 2013

YOUR OPPORTUNITY
TO COMMENT
The draft Strategy outlines the proposed approach for how
we plan and manage the coast and marine environment.
Your experience, ideas and input are an important part of
developing the final Strategy.
The Victorian Coastal Council welcomes your comments
to help shape this Strategy. Full details on the consultation
and feedback process are available on the Victorian Coastal
Council website at vcc.vic.gov.au
Submissions can be made by post or email to:
Victorian Coastal Council
PO Box 500
East Melbourne VIC 3002
Email: submissions@vcc.vic.gov.au
Please provide submissions by 5pm, 4 December 2013
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries
Melbourne, September 2013
© The State of Victoria Department of Environment and Primary Industries 2013
This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in
accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne.
ISBN 978-1-74287-924-6 (Print)
ISBN 978-1-74287-925-3 (pdf)
For more information contact the DEPI Customer Service Centre 136 186
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.
Accessibility
If you would like to receive this publication in an accessible format, such as large print or
audio, please telephone 136 186, or email customer.service@dse.vic.gov.au
Deaf, hearing impaired or speech impaired? Call us via the National Relay Service on
133 677 or visit www.relayservice.com.au
This document is also available in PDF format on the internet at www.vcc.vic.gov.au
Acknowledgment of Country and
Indigenous Australians
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 sea and spiritual
connection to it.

FOREWORD
FOREWORD
DRAFT VICTORIAN COASTAL STRATEGY 2013 i
This Draft Victorian Coastal Strategy 2013 has been
prepared for the purpose of stimulating input to the version
of the Victorian Coastal Strategy that the Victorian Coastal
Council will propose to the Minister for Environment and
Climate Change, the Hon. Ryan Smith, for his consideration
and endorsement in accordance with Section 17 of the
Coastal Management Act 1995.
This Draft has been prepared with contributions from a
number of organisations and individuals with professional
and personal interest in our coast. The Council has also
had the benefit of a review of the 2008 Victorian Coastal
Strategy and has taken advice from a number of members
of Regional Coastal Boards, from Council’s Executive Officer
Elizabeth Patterson and VCC staff, and from staff of the
Department of Environment and Primary Industries and other
Departments.
Members of the Council have also contributed their
knowledge and experience to the preparation of the Draft
and I take this opportunity to thank them for their individual
contributions. Whilst many have contributed to the Draft,
the Council collectively takes responsibility for the form and
content of this document. It has been prepared for the most
important phase of information collection and to gain the
input of the broader Victorian community.
The vision for Victoria’s coast that we have identified in
this Draft will, the Council hopes, reflect the aspirations of
the broader community. We expect the six issues that are
identified in the Strategy will provide a basis for constructive
discussion as to how we can better manage the coast, but
there may well be other issues that the Strategy should also
address. Council would like to hear of those and of other
ideas that people feel should be considered in planning for
the future of our coast.
Much has been achieved through previous iterations of the
Victorian Coastal Strategy, but much remains to be done
if we are to achieve the vision articulated in this document
in the face of the dynamic and changing nature of the
coast, increased visitation pressures, and the growing cost
of providing and maintaining infrastructure. Achieving our
vision will require the participation of the broader community,
and its representatives, in identifying how the coast can be
best managed so we can continue to enjoy its recreational,
lifestyle and economic benefits into the future.
Please read this Draft Victorian Coastal Strategy 2013
carefully and contribute to its evolution. The Council will
consider your views as we prepare our further draft for the
Minister’s consideration.
Jon Hickman
Chair
❮ Jan Juc Surf Beach James Lauritz

CONTENTS
ii DRAFT VICTORIAN COASTAL STRATEGY 2013
CONTENTS
FOREWORD I
VISION 3
INTRODUCTION 5
Historical Context 6
The 2013 Review 6
Working with Regional Coastal Boards 7
Purpose of the Strategy 7
Guiding Concept – ICZM 8
Coastal Planning and Management Framework 9
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE COAST 11
Environmental values 11
Social and cultural values 11
Economic values 11
KEY ISSUES 15
Adapting to a changing climate and increased
coastal hazards 15
Managing population growth 17
Understanding the value of natural resources 19
Integrated approach to marine management 20
Financing coastal infrastructure and management 21
Balancing decision-making 22
HIERARCHY OF PRINCIPLES 25
VALUE AND PROTECT 29
Appreciating and valuing the coast 29
Cultural heritage 30
Marine environments 32
Wetlands and estuaries 34
Onshore environments 36
Catchments and water quality 38
PLAN AND ACT 41
Supporting community participation 41
Sustainable coastal settlements 42
Coastal hazards and natural coastal processes 45
Balancing decision-making 48
Research and knowledge sharing 49
Emergency management 50
USE AND ENJOY 53
Siting and design of buildings and infrastructure
on the coast 53
Visitation and tourism 56
Access on the coast 58
Boating and water-based activities 59
Sustainable ports 60
Fishing and aquaculture 61
Coastal energy resources 63
IMPLEMENTATION 65
Implementation Coordinating Committee 65
Building capacity and supporting coastal managers 65
Financing coastal management 65
Efficient and effective regulation 66
Monitoring, Evaluating and Reporting (MER) 66
Priority Actions 67
APPENDICES 72
Glossary 73
Acronyms 76
Appendices A–G 77
References 85
Maps 1–5 86

DRAFT VICTORIAN COASTAL STRATEGY 2013 1
STRUCTURE
STRUCTURE
VISION
WHY
WE
CARE
VICTORIA’S COAST
• IMPORTANCE OF THE COAST
• KEY ISSUES
WHAT
WE
ARE
DOING
HIERARCHY OF PRINCIPLES
VALUE
AND
PROTECT
APPRECIATING AND VALUING THE COAST
CULTURAL HERITAGE
MARINE ENVIRONMENTS
WETLANDS AND ESTUARIES
ONSHORE ENVIRONMENTS
CATCHMENTS AND WATER QUALITY
PLAN
AND
ACT
SUPPORTING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
SUSTAINABLE COASTAL SETTLEMENTS
COASTAL HAZARDS AND NATURAL COASTAL PROCESSES
BALANCING DECISION-MAKING
RESEARCH AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
USE
AND
ENJOY
SITING AND DESIGN OF BUILDINGS AND
INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE COAST
VISITATION AND TOURISM
ACCESS ON THE COAST
BOATING AND WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES
SUSTAINABLE PORTS
FISHING AND AQUACULTURE
COASTAL ENERGY RESOURCES
HOW
WE
DO IT
IMPLEMENTATION
• SUPPORTING COASTAL MANAGERS
• FINANCING THE COAST
• PRIORITY ACTIONS

VISION
2 DRAFT VICTORIAN COASTAL STRATEGY 2013
A HEALTHY COAST
ENJOYED BY ALL NOW
AND IN THE FUTURE

VISION
VISION
A HEALTHY COAST ENJOYED BY ALL NOW AND IN THE FUTURE
A healthy coast
• The natural processes and features of the coast support the quality of life for Victorians
• Areas of significant environmental, cultural, geological and landscape features are protected
• Beaches, estuarine and marine waters are clean and healthy
• There is a diversity of indigenous Victorian plants and animals including resilient communities of seagrass,
mangroves, saltmarsh, fish and mammals
• Engineering for the coast takes into account the natural shifts and changes of the coastline
A coast enjoyed by all
• Victorians value, are proud of, and feel a sense of ownership for, healthy coastal and marine environments,
and participate in planning and caring for the coast
• There is respect for the Traditional Owners and the aspirations of Aboriginal people in the use of the coast
• There is a wide range of experiences from vibrant beaches to remote wilderness areas where people can
enjoy the coast – e.g. watching a sunset, walking, swimming, surfing, fishing and boating
• Victorians are able to access and enjoy the coast as the majority of it is in public ownership. Some areas
are easily accessible with high quality facilities and other areas have minimal or no access to maintain
environmental and cultural values
• Facilities that support coastal and marine recreation such as life-saving clubs and yacht clubs are well
located, attractive and managed to meet community needs
• Buildings and infrastructure are exemplary in siting, design and environmental standards, and are able to
adapt to natural coastal processes
• Coastal cities, towns and settlements have distinctive characters and are separated by natural or rural
landscapes
For now and the future
• Best available science and expertise informs coastal and marine planning, management and decision-making
• Aboriginal groups contribute to decision-making and are actively involved in managing the coast
• Coastal resources are utilised for economic activity (tourism, ports, fishing, renewable energy) provided this
use is consistent with sustaining a healthy and productive coast over the long term
• Planning and management has a long-term outlook, is holistic and integrated across government agencies
(Commonwealth, State and Local), industry sectors and the community
• Adaptation of communities, settlements and ecosystems is considered in all aspects of planning and
management on the coast
VISION
❮ Moonlight Head James Lauritz

INTRODUCTION

The Victorian Coastal Strategy 2013 sets the framework
for how we plan and manage the coast. The Coastal
Management Act 1995 requires the Strategy to provide for
the long-term planning of the Victorian coast, in order to:
• ensure the protection of significant environmental features
• provide clear direction for the future use of the coast,
including the marine environment
• identify suitable development areas and development
opportunities
• ensure the sustainable use of natural coastal resources.
Victorians have a strong connection with the coast. It is a
special place for us to visit, holiday and live. We enjoy the
varied recreational and lifestyle opportunities it provides and
appreciate the diverse landscapes and seascapes. We highly
value clean and healthy beaches and water, which is integral
to our use and enjoyment. We appreciate that we all stand
to benefit from coastal economic activity such as tourism,
fisheries, energy resources and ports and shipping. Coastal
commercial activities in Victoria contribute $9.8 billion per
annum to the economy, and the value provided by the
natural coastal environment is estimated at $8.4 billion per
annum.
Looking after the coast is a shared responsibility: the
community, government and business all have a role to play.
In Victoria we are fortunate to have a longstanding legacy
of communities and individuals being involved in caring for
the coast. Around 9,000 Victorians are members of coastal
groups, from Coastcare to Committees of Management to
Regional Coastal Boards. They champion, conserve, and
manage the coast on our behalf.
The dynamic and changing nature of the coast and the
climate, increased visitation pressures, and the growing
cost of providing and maintaining infrastructure all present
challenges for the continued use and enjoyment of the coast.
The Strategy sets out a long-term vision, identifies key issues
to be addressed, and principles, policies and actions to
guide decision-making. As well as the suite of topics that
address the wide range of issues on the coast, the Victorian
Coastal Council has identified six key issues that require
specific attention and priority for implementation over the
next five years, they include:
1. Building our capacity to adapt to coastal hazards and to
work with communities across all levels of government,
on longer-term adaptation planning.
2. Financing coastal infrastructure, and ensuring effective
governance of the coast in the face of pressures, such as
a growing population and aging infrastructure.
3. Managing population growth on the metropolitan and
regional coast, and the impact of increased use and
visitation and sustaining coastal township character.
4. Better understanding the real value of natural assets
on the coast, and explicitly considering this value when
assessing development proposals.
5. A more integrated and holistic approach for planning and
managing the marine environment.
6. Ensuring a balance between local community, regional
and state-wide decision-making authority, reflecting that
historical settings may not be appropriate for the future.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Hooded Plover on a nest at Rye ocean beach Glenn Ehmke, Birdlife Australia
❮ Ocean and foreshore vegetation at Gippsland Faye Bedford, DEPI

INTRODUCTION
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
In his second reading speech introducing the Coastal
Management Bill on 21 March 1995 former Minister for
Conservation and Environment, the Hon Mark Birrell MLC,
said:
“Our coasts are coming under increasing pressure for
a variety of uses, which can result in land use conflicts
and the degradation of coastal habitat. The challenge
is to ensure that its many attributes are managed in a
sustainable fashion and that decisions about competing
uses are balanced in the interests of all Victorians”.
This continues to be the primary objective of the Victorian
Coastal Strategy.
The Coastal Management Act 1995 requires the Victorian
Coastal Council to review the Strategy every five years. This
enables emerging coastal issues to be dealt with within the
context of the Act requirements.
An important achievement of previous reviews was the
introduction of a hierarchy of principles based on the
requirements of the Act. The hierarchy of principles for
decision-making on the coast include:
1. Provide for the protection of significant environmental and
cultural features
2. Undertake integrated planning and provide clear direction
for the future
3. Ensure the sustainable use of natural coastal resources
When the above principles have been considered and
addressed
4. Ensure suitable development on the coast
THE 2013 REVIEW
People
The 2013 Review has a particular focus on people and
people’s attitude toward and use of the coast. Latest
research from the Victorian Coastal Council shows that over
84% of Victorians made at least one day trip to the coast in
the last twelve months. Overall people were very satisfied with
their experience rating it either excellent or very good. Their
accounts suggest the most enjoyable aspects of their coastal
experience involved the atmosphere/scenery, followed by
spending time with family/friends walking and hiking.
The top things people thought contributed to good coastal
management were clean water, lack of rubbish and an
unspoilt/undeveloped/natural environment. Nonetheless,
people were concerned about pollution, the pressure of
recreational use and wanting towns to retain their sense of
character.
The key issues, policies and actions in the Strategy aim to
address these concerns.
Integration and coordination
The 2013 Review has been undertaken in the context of
other initiatives that directly or indirectly affect the coast,
these include:
• Coastal Action Plans prepared by Regional Coastal
Boards
• Reforms to Planning Zones
• Victorian Coastal Hazard Guide (2012) – developed to
improve the understanding of coastal hazards, the effects
that a changing climate may have on these hazards and
Half Moon Bay Ingrid Novosel, Indented Head Community Association

INTRODUCTION
approaches that may be used to manage the effects of
these hazards
• A Cleaner Yarra and Port Phillip Bay (2012) – addressing
threats to water quality in Port Phillip Bay and supporting
Victorians to actively care for it
• Regional Catchment Strategies (2013) – prepared by the
five catchment management authorities on the coast that
consider coastal values when determining catchment
management priorities
• Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011–2015 – to support
community stewardship of Victoria’s coasts
• Environmental Partnerships (2012) – achieving integrated
multiple outcomes for land, water and biodiversity,
being a responsible public land manager, facilitating
adaptation to a changing climate and removing barriers
to action, supporting community participation in coastal
management.
The Council is seeking feedback from those who are
knowledgeable about these initiatives as to the extent which
the Strategy supports their endeavours.
The Council has also commissioned a number of reports
to inform the development of the 2013 Review. The range
of material reflects the complexity of coastal issues and
the challenge of integration across different planning and
management sectors.
These reports which include; ‘Assessing the Value of the
Coast to Victoria’, ‘Derivation of Victorian Sea Level Planning
Allowances’, and ‘Population and Settlement along the
Victorian Coast’, are available on the Victorian Coastal
Council website (www.vcc.vic.gov.au).
WORKING WITH REGIONAL COASTAL
BOARDS
Whilst the Victorian Coastal Council works with many
partners, our partnerships with Regional Coastal Boards
are paramount. Regional Coastal Boards have a critical role
in implementing the Strategy, and while the Strategy will
establish principles and policies these will need to be applied
locally with the benefit of local knowledge and in the context
of local situations.
The Minister for Environment and Climate Change, the Hon
Ryan Smith, has directed each Regional Coastal Board to
prepare an integrated Coastal Action Plan for its Region.
These instruments will sit alongside this Strategy in guiding
decision makers in coastal Committees of Management,
local government and other bodies.
PURPOSE OF THE STRATEGY
The purpose of the Strategy is to:
• provide guidance for agencies and statutory decision-
making along the coast and in marine and estuarine
environments
• provide a framework for the development and
implementation of other plans such as Coastal Action
Plans and Coastal Management Plans and a coastal
context for the development of related strategies like
Regional Catchment Strategies, planning schemes and
Regional Waterway Strategies
• engage the community to value the coast and marine
environment and to participate in its planning and
management.
Jan Juc Surf Beach James Lauritz

INTRODUCTION
What do we mean by the ‘coast’
Throughout the Strategy, references to ‘the coast’
encompass coastal, estuarine and marine environments. It
applies to:
• the marine environment – nearshore marine environment,
the seabed, and waters out to the State limit of three
nautical miles (5.5 kilometres)
• foreshores – or coastal Crown land up to 200 metres
seaward from the high water mark
• coastal hinterland – land directly influenced by the sea or
directly influencing the coastline, and with critical impacts
on the foreshore and nearshore environment (these
influences range from visual to drainage impacts, as
illustrated in Figure 1)
• catchments – rivers and drainage systems that affect the
coastal zone, including estuaries
• private and public land and all systems that impact on the
coast and marine environment.
GUIDING CONCEPT – INTEGRATED
COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT
Underpinning this Strategy and influencing the way we
manage the coast is the concept of ‘Integrated Coastal Zone
Management’.
Coastal processes are not bounded by land tenure, land
management, jurisdictional or policy boundaries. Integrated
Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) is about working across
a geographic area (land to sea), across different land
tenures (public and private), and across organisational and
jurisdictions (national, State, regional & local).
ICZM is the basis for coastal planning and management
in Victoria and is achieved through formal and informal
collaboration and coordination between all the different
groups who use and manage the coast.
Figure 1: Integrated coastal zone management in Victoria.

INTRODUCTION
COASTAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT
FRAMEWORK
The Coastal Management Act 1995 (the Act) establishes the
legislative framework for planning and managing the coast of
Victoria. The Act enables a four-tiered approach with policies,
plans and tools at a state, regional, local and site level.
The broader land use planning system is also important for
the implementation of the Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and
Coastal Management Plans. The relationship between these
policies and plans is through:
• State Planning Policy Framework which requires coastal
planning to be consistent with the Strategy and any
relevant Coastal Action Plans
• Sections of local planning schemes through Municipal
Strategic Statements and Local Planning Policy
Frameworks
• Approvals for land use and development on private
and Crown land on the coast being required under the
Planning and Environment Act 1987.
There are a number of other Acts, strategies and plans used
to ensure that the coast remains in a healthy state. Appendix
A sets out the list of relevant legislation and documents, and
Appendix B details the range of groups involved in coastal
management and planning in Victoria.
STATE
REGIONAL
LOCAL
SITE
VICTORIAN COASTAL STRATEGY
COASTAL ACTION PLANS LINKS
TO LAND USE
PLANNING
SYSTEMCOASTAL MANAGEMENT PLANS
CONSENT FOR USE
AND DEVELOPMENT

IMPORTANCE

THE IMPORTANCE
OF THE COAST
IMPORTANCE
The coast provides great social, cultural, economic and
environment benefits for all Victorians. Understanding these
benefits and the different values is essential for effective
decision-making.
ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES
Victoria’s coast supports a diverse range of environments
along its 2,000 kilometre length. Reef systems, seagrass
beds, kelp forests, sponge gardens, intertidal rock platforms
and other habitats support the world’s largest diversity of red
and brown seaweeds, sea mosses, crabs, shrimps and sea
squirts. Recent marine mapping has discovered previously
unexplored seascapes and communities of organisms new
to science.
There are about 123 bays, inlets and estuaries, varying
in water area from around one square kilometre to 2,000
square kilometres. Estuaries are important sites for fish
spawning or as nursery grounds. Saltmarshes, mangroves
and wetlands are important nesting and feeding grounds for
a broad range of significant waterbirds and waders, including
migratory species.
Ecosystems on the foreshore and hinterland vary greatly.
Beaches, large and small, give way to dune systems.
Woodlands and scrublands occupy swales behind the
dunes, with some small pockets of threatened coastal
Moonah woodland still surviving. In other parts, dry forests
can be found down to the beach edge, and coastal heath
occupies cliffs and rocky coasts.
SOCIAL AND CULTURAL VALUES
Over the past decade our desire to experience and enjoy
the coast has grown significantly. Eighty-five per cent of the
country’s population lives within 50 kilometres of the coast,
and approximately four out of five Victorians visit the coast
every year (Ipsos, 2012). Most Victorians living close to the
coast visit regularly, largely to enjoy a clean, healthy, natural
environment.
In Victoria, the coast is largely accessible and provides a
wide range of experiences from busy city beaches to smaller
seaside settlements and remote wilderness areas.
Healthy coastal and marine ecosystems provide significant
social and cultural value for Victorians. The coast’s natural
aesthetics, cultural heritage, and range of recreational
pursuits make it attractive and valuable for residents, visitors
and tourists. Research has demonstrated that there is a
strong and important link between the quality of the coastal
environment and the quality of life for many Victorians.
Coastal heritage values play an important role in creating
our sense of place and defining who we are. There are past
and present Aboriginal traditions, places created by early
and recent settlers, and customs, celebrations and special
characteristics that build community pride and enhance
social cohesion.
ECONOMIC VALUES
A diverse range of economic activity occurs on the Victorian
coast.
Commercial uses include recreation, coastal tourism,
shipping, petroleum extraction and commercial fishing, each
of which has direct and indirect benefits to local, regional and
national economies.
The value of coastal commercial activities is around $9.8
billion per annum (Worley Parsons, 2013). Of the industries
examined, petroleum, tourism and commercial ports are
the largest, each contributing more than $3 billion annually
to the economy. The tourism industry is by far the largest
contributor to employment, with an estimated 23,000 jobs
created directly.
Victoria’s ports consist of four main commercial trading
ports – Melbourne, Geelong, Portland and Hastings, which
handle the bulk of commercial trade, and fourteen local ports
that primarily serve as commercial fishing and recreational
boating hubs.
Victoria’s commercial fisheries occur within State waters (to
three nautical miles), or in some cases beyond and in bays,
inlets and estuaries. The most valuable wild-caught fishery
sectors are abalone ($24 million) and rock lobster ($15.8
million). Aquaculture production provides a further $11.8
million (Worley Parsons, 2013).
The petroleum sector encompasses the exploration,
appraisal, development, construction and production of
natural gas and petroleum liquid resources. While much of
the production occurs beyond the three nautical mile limit of
State waters, the product is brought onshore in Victoria for
refining, storage and distribution.
Non-commercial coastal uses include storm and flood
protection, erosion buffers and nutrient cycling, which
provide significant benefit to the community. The total value
of Victoria’s non-commercial coastal uses, including storm
❮ Male weedy sea dragon (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus) at Flinders Pier Richard Wylie

protection, flood and disease control, habitat, biodiversity,
recreation and passive enjoyment is $8.4 billion per year
(Worley Parsons, 2013).
Estuaries/rivers are a valuable habitat type at $2.5 billion
per annum, while seagrass habitats are valued at around
$1.8 billion per annum (Worley Parsons, 2013). Recent
work shows that seagrass, mangroves and saltmarsh are
potentially larger sinks for carbon than tropical rainforests.
Coastal recreation is valued at $2.4 billion per annum. This
represents the willingness of people to pay for coastal
recreation opportunities over and above what they actually
spend on tourism.
At present, the non-commercial value of coastal services
is given limited if any explicit consideration in planning and
management decision-making on the coast. Consideration
of both commercial and non-commercial values on a
comparable basis will enhance decision making and
sustainable use of coastal resources.
VALUES OF THE COAST
HEALTHY COAST
POLICY AND ACTIONS
SOCIAL
ACCESS
VALUE AND
PROTECT
PLAN AND
ACT
USE AND
ENJOY
WATER QUALITY COASTAL PROCESSES
SUPPORT COASTAL MANAGERS, BUILDING CAPACITY, FINANCING, MONITORING AND REPORTING
HABITAT TOWNSHIP CHARACTER
CULTURAL ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMIC
Figure 2: The health of the coast supports a range of community values. Policies and actions are set out in the Strategy to protect and
improve the health of the coast.
IMPORTANCE

IMPORTANCE
Aerial photo of Port Melbourne and Albert Park foreshore Port Phillip City Council

KEYISSUES

KEY ISSUES
KEYISSUES
Both the built and the natural environments are under pressure from population increase, resource
extraction, a changing climate and coastal hazards, ageing infrastructure and competing demands for
the use of the coast.
The Strategy provides policies and actions for managing these pressures so the coast remains in
healthy condition so we can continue to enjoy it now and in the future.
This section provides a summary of six key issues that cut across the wide range of different coastal
activities that require specific attention over the next five years. Policies and actions relating to these
key issues are detailed in the main part of the Strategy.
ADAPTING TO A CHANGING CLIMATE AND INCREASED COASTAL HAZARDS
The coast is not static. The coast moves with the influence
of tides, wind, waves and weather systems. Interactions
between these coastal processes and different landforms
(sandy beaches, rocky headlands, low-lying mud flats and
estuaries) create complex and dynamic systems. The sea is
also dynamic and through its very nature physical, chemical
and biological processes are connected.
A changing climate brings with it significant changes of
the coast and marine environment. During this century it is
possible that the Victorian coast will be impacted by sea level
rise, changing sea temperatures, altered rainfall and ocean
acidification. This in turn will impact on how we use and
enjoy the coast.
The impacts of a changing climate are summarised in Table 1
and further information can be found in Appendix C.
Table 1: Summary of the impacts a changing climate can have on the coast
Sea level rise More frequent and extensive inundation of low lying areas
Cliff, beach and foreshore erosion
Altered saltmarsh and mangrove habitats
Damaged infrastructure e.g. seawalls, jetties, roads, walking tracks
Loss of and damage to private property
More frequent and extreme storm
events
Intense and destructive flooding of land and buildings
Loss of and damage to private property
Beach, foreshore and cliff erosion
Pollution from sewer overflows
Changing sea temperatures Species distribution shifts
Spread of invasive species and diseases
Increased sea surface temperatures and altered currents
Changes in phenology e.g. phytoplankton blooms
Altered patterns of wet and dry
periods
Changed salinity, nutrient and sediment flows
Changed estuaries, greater extremes of high and low freshwater input
Reduced water clarity
Increased frequency and intensity of fires on land, with impacts beyond
Ocean acidification Declining shellfish and other species
Impacts on early life stages of species
Loss of plankton base for food webs, affecting fisheries
❮ Barwon Heads Bridge and William Buckley Bridge Peter Elliott Architecture and Urban Development with VicRoads

Sea level rise planning benchmarks
While there are instances of sea level rise around the
globe, recorded increases vary widely due to factors such
as prevailing winds, changing ocean currents and the
gravitational pull of the polar ice sheets. Monitoring stations
at Lorne and Stony Point have recorded rises of 2.8 mm/year
and 2.4mm/year respectively since 1991 (DSE 2011).
Sea level rise will inundate some coastal foreshores and
coastlines are expected to retreat. Sea level rise will also
increase the risk of private land and property being flooded
or eroded.
A sea level rise planning benchmark reduces these risks
for new developments, provides consistency for decision-
making and reduces the level of uncertainty for businesses,
communities and individuals in managing coastal hazards.
The Victorian Coastal Council commissioned a report,
Derivation of Victorian Sea Level Planning Allowances, May
2013, to provide an update of sea level rise projections as
they relate to the coast of Victoria. This uses a model that
takes into consideration:
• the latest projections of regional sea level rise by the
IPCC Fourth Assessment Report
• additional contributions to account for vertical land motion
caused by past and ongoing changes in land ice melt
• present statistics of storm tides (combination of tides and
storm surges), which have been derived from tide gauge
observations in Victoria and storm modelling for Australia
• a time period starting at 2010.
The report set out three suggestions for sea level rise
planning benchmarks in Victoria:
• to plan for not less than 0.2 metres by 2040
• to plan for not less than 0.8 metres by 2100.
These are consistent with the sea level rise planning
benchmarks in the current State Planning Policy Framework.
Adaptation
Adapting to changes means acting to reduce risks, increase
resilience, and taking advantage of any new opportunities.
It applies to all aspects of the coast including biodiversity,
settlements, land use activity and industry.
The Victorian Government’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan
2013, outlines six key strategies for considering adaptation:
1. Managing risks to public assets and services
2. Managing risks to natural assets and natural resource-
based industries
3. Building disaster resilience and integrated emergency
management
4. Improving access to research and information for
decision making
5. Supporting private sector adaptation
6. Strengthening partnerships with local government and
communities.
To assist in planning for sea level rise and coastal hazards,
the Victorian Government has also created a package of
tools to support decision-making, including inundation maps
(Victorian coastal inundation dataset), planning notes and
guidelines (Victorian Coastal Hazard Guide). A summary of
the tools is in Appendix D. There have also been a number
of additional tools developed, such as the Pathways for
Decision-making by the Australian Government, and
adaptation plans developed at a local government level.
The majority of these tools are focused on considering
impacts of a changing climate, such as inundation and
erosion, at individual sites as part of the statutory planning
system. More attention will be needed in the future to address
impacts of a changing climate on existing buildings and
structures, migration of natural systems, and longer term
settlement planning.
To assist with longer-term adaptation at a local and regional
level, the Victorian Government is working with local councils
to produce local coastal hazard assessments. Four pilot
projects are underway in, Port Fairy, Corio Bay/Bellarine
Peninsula, Western Port Bay and the Gippsland Lakes/Ninety
Mile Beach. Once these projects are complete the outcomes
can guide application of this approach in other locations.
Managing for the impacts of a changing climate in the
short and long term is a responsibility shared by all levels of
government, industry, business and the people of Victoria.
Everyone needs to play a part in understanding the impacts
and acting to manage the risks.
In addressing this issue, the desired outcomes of this
Strategy are:
• Natural coastal processes are adopted as the
preferred form of defence against possible impacts of
a changing climate
• New development (and alterations to existing
development) avoids areas subject to coastal hazards
and does not interfere with natural coastal processes
KEYISSUES

MANAGING POPULATION GROWTH
The population on the Victorian coast has continued to grow
over the past decade although growth rates have fluctuated.
In the early 2000s population growth was rapid, particularly
in areas within about two hours drive of Melbourne. In the
second half of the decade, growth rates along the Victorian
coast slowed (Table 2).
Some coastal areas retain strong growth, including areas
such as Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and Bass Coast. The
close proximity of the Bellarine and Surf Coasts to Geelong
and Melbourne enhances their popularity as commuter
locations, as well as traditional beach holiday destinations.
As a result, this area has become one of the main
concentrations of coastal population in the State (Figure 3).
Coastal settlements also continue to experience annual
population fluctuations through part-time residents and
holiday visitors. Peak seasonal populations can be as many
as four or five times higher than the base resident population.
The 2011 census counted a total of 35,800 unoccupied
dwellings along Victoria’s coastal settlements (excluding
Melbourne and Geelong). This represents an average winter
vacancy rate of around 37 per cent.
Over the past two decades, the population in our coastal
towns has ‘aged’, with an increase in the proportion of the
population aged 75 years or more. Of the 56 settlements
along the coast (excluding Melbourne), 41 have above-
average proportions aged 75 years or more, when compared
with the State average.
This demographic change highlights the importance of
directing the location of new infrastructure according to the
coastal settlement framework (Map 1), which consolidates
major infrastructure into key coastal settlements.
Table 2: Population change, coastal and non-coastal Victoria, 2001 to 2011
Population
Average Annual
Population Change (%)
2001 2006 2011 2001–06 2006–11 2001–11
Coastal Victoria* 733,467 774,717 837,362 1.10 1.57 1.33
Non Coastal Victoria 3,911,483 4,140,626 4,513,846 1.15 1.74 1.44
Total Victoria 4,644,950 4,915,346 5,531,222 1.14 1.71 1.43
Coastal population as %
of Victoria’s population
15.79 15.76 15.65
* As measured using ABS Statistical Areas (SA2). Source: ABS Census 2011 Time Series Profile Table T01.
Figure 3: Population concentration along the Victorian coast, 2011.
Source: ABS Regional Population Growth Australia, cat. no. 3218.0

KEYISSUES

Impacts linked to changing coastal
communities
Growth in the number of visitors to the coast creates
valuable local jobs and increased local economic activity.
There are substantial private and public benefits in meeting
this increased demand from population growth.
However, meeting the needs of seasonal visitors during
peak holiday periods can create significant challenges.
Infrastructure such as roads, water supply and sewerage and
power need to be built to meet these peak demand periods,
adding to the costs of these services.
Our desire to be near and visit the coast creates pressure on
the very aesthetic, cultural, and environmental values which
attract us. Careful planning is required to meet these growing
demands in a way that preserves the significant natural
values and ecosystems of the coast.
Over the last five years, Victoria has focussed on managing
population and growth by implementing significant landscape
overlays and defining settlement boundaries. The successes
of this will be built on over the next five years to allow growth
to occur in designated areas while maintaining settlement
character, and protecting landscape and environmental
values that draw people to the coast.
Planning for increases in visitor use may require different
solutions in the future, such as people management
strategies.
Strategy are:
• Sustainable coastal settlements are planned to
support a healthy environment, a sustainable
economy, and strong social and cultural values
• Green breaks are used between coastal settlements
to preserve the character of the coastline
KEYISSUES
Queenscliff Marina and Swan Bay Tony Cavanagh

UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF NATURAL
RESOURCES
The Victorian coast is made up of different ecosystems
associated with beaches, estuaries, wetlands, coastal
vegetation, seagrass meadows and rocky reefs. These
ecosystems provide benefits termed ‘ecosystem goods and
services’ that support commercial and non-commercial uses
of the coast.
Ecosystem services can be grouped in four broad categories
(Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005):
Provisioning services
Products from nature such
as food
(e.g. pharmaceuticals,
fisheries, shells, sand and
lime, gas/oil)
Cultural services
Non-material benefits
(e.g. recreation
opportunities, aesthetics,
spiritual values, amenity)
Regulating services
Regulation of ecosystem
processes
(e.g. storm protection,
erosion buffers, flood and
disease control)
Supporting services
Necessary for the
production of all other
ecosystem services
(e.g. habitat, biodiversity,
nutrient cycling,
biogeochemical services)
Provisioning and cultural services are dependent upon
regulating and supporting services. This has important
implications for decision-making about use and management
of coastal and marine ecosystems particularly when there are
competing demands.
The connection between commercial and non-commercial
values is important and can be illustrated by considering
fisheries and ports. Fisheries provide an estimated $68
million value to the Victorian economy (Worley Parsons
2013). In order to run such industries efficiently and
competitively, coastal infrastructure is required, such as
jetties, ports, and navigational aids.
The provision of coastal infrastructure may affect coastal
ecosystems (e.g. seagrass meadows and mangroves) and
the ecosystem services they provide. If these ecosystems
provide services as fish breeding grounds or storm
protection barriers, then their value (and the cost of losing
them) is a critical component of maintaining a sustainable
fishery industry and protecting the investment in coastal
infrastructure.
Decision-making frameworks need to encompass such
interdependent interactions, and allow for an understanding
of the trade-offs that are inherent in the use of ecosystem
services for commercial and community benefit. A barrier to
evaluating trade-offs is the lack of a common currency for
comparing value. Economic valuation is one way to address
this barrier.
The report commissioned by the Victorian Coastal Council,
‘Assessing the Value of the Coast to Victoria’, is a first step
in estimating coastal and marine ecosystems services in
Victoria. In the future we can refine these estimates and
develop appropriate processes and methods for considering
trade-offs in both complex and more straightforward
proposals.
Strategy are:
• Improved methods for valuing ecosystem services are
used to allow the balance between competing coastal
and marine values to be negotiated transparently and
systematically
KEYISSUES

INTEGRATED APPROACH TO MARINE
MANAGEMENT
Coastal and marine systems are dynamic by nature; they
involve complex physical, chemical and biological processes.
These processes occur both within the water and across the
interface between land and water. Healthy coastal waters are
dependent on how we manage the whole coast – and all of
its systems.
Marine environments support a diverse range of goods
and services that deliver benefits to all Victorians including
fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, recreation, natural coastal
defences, and carbon storage.
Threats to the values of marine environments are numerous;
they arise from biophysical factors such as a changing
climate, and from human activities such as increasing
demand for marine uses and activities, marine pollution,
catchment impacts on water quality, and invasion of marine
pests.
These impacts can be heightened by the cumulative (over
time) or combined (simultaneous) changes in threats. Many
of these cumulative impacts are difficult to anticipate or
predict, as thresholds and tipping points for species and
systems are poorly understood.
Managing these impacts is crucial to the health of marine
environments and the activities they support. The current
approach to marine planning and management in Victoria is
issue-activity-or-‘sector’-focused. Fisheries, marine parks,
resource extraction, ports and shipping, tourism, and
catchment management are generally considered individually,
particularly on the open coast.
This approach limits our capacity to address the overlapping
and cumulative impacts from combined threats and can
reduce the efficiency and effectiveness of marine planning
and management.
Going forward, to achieve our Vision, it is important that
all marine sectors work together to sustain the health of
Victoria’s marine environments. Within Port Phillip Bay, the
Cleaner Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay Plan of Action 2012
is fostering integration across sectors and could be a model
for other areas of the coast. An integrated approach would:
• consider marine environments at a ‘whole of ecosystem’
level
• provide shared objectives that reflect the aspirations of
Victorians
• use guiding principles for integrated management across
sectors (Appendix E)
• provide a shared spatial basis for decision-making
• identify areas of environmental, cultural, social and
economic significance
• identify areas for new uses and for the co-location of
existing uses
• increase certainty for environmental managers and
development/resource use managers by streamlining and
consolidating approval and consent processes.
Strategy are:
• An integrated and holistic approach is used for the
management and planning of the marine environment
• Coastal waters, estuaries, wetlands and the terrestrial
environment are managed to promote healthy marine
ecosystems that support connectivity and adaptation
KEYISSUES

FINANCING COASTAL INFRASTRUCTURE
AND MANAGEMENT
The medium and longer-term impacts of a changing climate
will see increasing pressure on coastal managers to protect
Crown land, private land and infrastructure on the coast. It will
also see increasing pressure to renew and replace assets that
are lost through increased erosion, inundation or old age.
New public buildings and facilities, and planning for new
private developments including roads and drainage systems
will take account of increased coastal hazards, but the
replacement and upgrade of existing infrastructure and
public facilities will be a more complex and expensive task.
There will also inevitably be pressure on coastal managers
to undertake works to protect privately owned land and
buildings threatened by coastal processes.
There is a long-standing policy that the expenditure of public
funds on protection works will be for state-wide public
benefit only (and very limited funding is available for this
purpose).
By their nature some coastal protection works will provide
local benefits and private benefits by protecting private
property. Consistent with the beneficiary pays principle
local government and private landholders are expected to
contribute to the capital and maintenance costs of such
protection works.
Council Special Rates are a potential mechanism to generate
revenue from landholders and from local communities
benefiting from protection works. Implementing special rates
for coastal protection works will be complex; potentially each
instance would involve a number of agencies. The process
would best be undertaken within a set of broadly endorsed
‘principles’ to ensure a consistent approach.
Presently the cost of maintaining facilities on the coast rests
with a range of state authorities and other entity bodies like
Committees of Management, Port Authorities, Parks Victoria,
the Department of Environment and Primary Industries and
local government. Under current arrangements some coastal
managers generate significant revenue for reinvestment on
their reserves, whilst adjoining reserves have relative little
revenue but may have a greater need for investment in
coastal protection or new facilities.
In the next five years research on the capacity of entities
to fund costal management actions and future adaptation
requirements is needed. This research could identify
measures to facilitate the alignment of funding capacity with
coastal management responsibilities.
Strategy are:
• Financing arrangements for the protection and use
of coastal land, and the provision and maintenance
of coastal infrastructure, are adequate to address the
impacts of a changing climate and population growth
pressures
KEYISSUES
St Kilda Promenade Port Phillip City Council

Effective coastal management relies on the capacity and
capability of our coastal land managers and planners.
Currently there are over 20 local government authorities, and
38 volunteer committees managing the foreshore along the
Victorian coast. Coastcare volunteer groups support coastal
managers and Coastcare estimate an in-kind contribution
from volunteers working on coastal Crown land at $12 million
each year. Their involvement needs to be encouraged and
supported.
Place based management provides the building blocks for
managing the coast. Community groups, Committees of
Management, local government, and Parks Victoria have the
primary responsibility for delivering services to the public.
However, the management of a small local part of the coast
needs to have regard to wider regional and state-wide
strategic directions. This is the primary task of the Victorian
Coastal Strategy and regional Coastal Action Plans.
Many coastal management activities are best undertaken by
local groups because they:
• have better knowledge of local conditions
• can better match local expenditure to the benefits to the
local community
• can find more innovative solutions than centralized
bureaucracies
• better involve local communities in the decisions that
affect them.
A recent review by the Department of Environment and
Primary Industries identified the huge variance in the
capability and capacity of coastal managers across the
state to deal with current and future coastal management
challenges. The review recommended developing business
models based on sustainable revenue streams for managers.
It also recommended that larger groupings of reserves
under the one manager should be investigated – the aim
here would be to distribute the gathered funds across a
wider area thereby improving the ability to target available
resources to key priorities.
Strategy are:
• Local communities actively participate in coastal and
marine management and planning
• Integrated Coastal Action Plans balancing state-wide
policies with regional and local priorities
KEYISSUES
People participating in coastal conservation Grainne Maguire, Birdlife Australia

KEYISSUES
Figure 4: Most coastal management activities and decisions are local
Local Community
Committees of Management, community democratic processes
Regional entities
Coastal Boards, catchment management
authorities, advisory committees
(e.g. Gippsland Lakes)
Local Government
Private and public land planning and management
State-wide issues
Minister’s
Departments
Local issues

OFPRINCIPLESHIERARCHY
…PLANNING AND
DECISION-MAKING
SHOULD BE CONSISTENT
WITH THE HIERARCHY
OF PRINCIPLES

HIERARCHY
OF PRINCIPLES
HIERARCHYOFPRINCIPLES
Managing the coast for the future will require responses to
the many ongoing pressures we face. To assist with this
previous Strategies have introduced a hierarchy of principles.
This concept recognises that the foundation of coastal
planning and management is a healthy coastal and marine
environment.
• The first principle is the protection of significant
environmental features.
• The second principle is to provide clear direction and
integrated planning for the future.
• The third principle is to ensure that coastal resources are
used sustainably.
• The fourth principle is to provide guidance for suitable
development on the coast.
The hierarchy of principles give effect to the directions in the
Coastal Management Act 1995 and are included in the State
Planning Policy Framework in planning schemes across
Victoria.
Planning and decision-making on the coast needs to be
consistent with the hierarchy of principles.
The policies and actions in the Strategy have been grouped
to align with the hierarchy of principles.
(PRINCIPLE 1) VALUE AND PROTECT
Recognising and protecting significant environmental and
cultural features of the coast
(PRINCIPLE 2) PLAN AND ACT
Enabling stakeholder participation in developing clear
directions for future use of the coast
(PRINCIPLE 3 AND 4) USE AND ENJOY
Ensuring sustainable use of natural coastal resources and
suitable development on the coast
VALUE
&
PROTECT
1 PROVIDE FOR THE PROTECTION OF SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL AND
CULTURAL VALUES
The starting point is protection of what we value on the coast, based on identification and sound
understanding of coastal and marine features and processes, vulnerabilities and risks
PLAN
&
ACT
2 UNDERTAKE INTEGRATED PLANNING AND PROVIDE CLEAR DIRECTION FOR THE
FUTURE
This highlights the importance of having integrated policies, plans and strategies which respond to
the major issues affecting coastal and marine environments and provide clear direction for protection,
management and sustainable development and use
USE
&
ENJOY
3 ENSURE THE SUSTAINABLE USE OF NATURAL COASTAL RESOURCES
This emphasises that natural coastal resources are to be used in ways which are sustainable so that the
benefits of resources remain available to future generations
Only when the above principles have been considered and addressed:
4 ENSURE DEVELOPMENT ON THE COAST IS LOCATED WITHIN EXISTING MODIFIED
AND RESILIENT ENVIRONMENTS WHERE THE DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT IS
EVIDENT AND THE IMPACT CAN BE MANAGED
This aims to ensure that development on and adjacent to the coast is of high quality design and is
sensitively sited
❮ Cape Woolamai Beach, Phillip Island David Hannah

PARTNERAGENCIESLEAD&

LEAD&
LEAD AND PARTNER AGENTS
The primary agency (lead agent) accountable for each action is listed first, in bold, followed by the major
stakeholders (partner agents) who will assist the lead agency in completing or implementing that action:
e.g. (DEPI, CMA, PV).
Not all organisations or groups who will be involved or consulted can be listed as there are so many, but we
acknowledge the vital role that other groups will play in informing and achieving these actions.
AAV Aboriginal Affairs Victoria
CMA Catchment Management Authorities
This refers to all or one of the five catchment management authorities that border the coast.
CoM Committees of Management
This refers to bodies delegated under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 to manage defined parcels of
Crown land, and includes appointed volunteer committees, Local Government (where they are Committee of
Management), and other delegated bodies under the Act.
DEPI Department of Environment and Primary Industries
DTF Department of Treasury and Finance
DTPLI Department of Transport Planning and Local Infrastructure
EPA Environment Protection Authority
HV Heritage Victoria
LG Local Government
This refers to Local Government in their capacity as planners and providers of significant infrastructure
and services across both private and public land, local by-law regulators, and as the level of Government
representing the local community. See also CoM.
MW Melbourne Water
This refers to Melbourne Water in their capacity as manager of Melbourne’s water supply catchments, sewage
treatment, rivers, creeks and major drainage systems throughout the Port Phillip and Westernport region.
PV Parks Victoria
This refers to Parks Victoria in their role as the custodian of a diverse estate of significant parks on the coast in
Victoria and of the recreational management of Port Phillip Bay and Western Port. These parks include National
Parks and coastal parks, as well as Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries.
RCB Regional Coastal Boards
Includes the Western Coastal Board (WCB), Central Coastal Board (CCB) and Gippsland Coastal Board (GCB).
VCC Victorian Coastal Council
PARTNERAGENTS
❮ Beach-nesting bird workshop at Point Lonsdale Glenn Ehmke, Birdlife Australia

PRINCIPLE 1
…RECOGNISING AND
PROTECTING SIGNIFICANT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND CULTURAL
FEATURES OF THE COAST
&PROTECTVALUE

VALUE AND PROTECT
APPRECIATING AND VALUING THE COAST
Desired outcomes
• Improved methods for valuing ecosystem services are
used to allow the balance between competing coastal
and marine values to be negotiated transparently and
systematically
Valuing coastal and marine ecosystems
Just as in a business, services being provided by coastal and
marine ecosystems need to be described and explained in
terms that the community, as potential users of the services,
can identify with. Examples of the ways that marine and
coastal ecosystems provide goods and services include:
• Mangroves offer physical protection from erosion caused
by storm surges, by dissipating wave energy
• Seagrass stabilises the seabed and is a nursery ground
for supporting commercial fish populations
• Marine and coastal organisms in the sediments
associated with seagrasses, saltmarshes and mangroves
that sequester and store biological carbon (sometimes
called ‘Blue Carbon’) at high rates. Rates of carbon
storage may equal or exceed sequestration capacity of
tropical forests.
Trade-offs in decision-making
One of the most difficult aspects of decision-making for
coastal and marine environments is to make trade–offs
regarding the use and development of habitats that deliver
both commercial and non-commercial benefits. For example,
if a particular area of mangrove forest provides a community
benefit in the form of natural storm protection we may be
making a decision about the trade-off between these public,
non-commercial benefits with the potential commercial
private and economic benefits from a proposed development
(e.g. a new harbour facility).
Decision-making and trade-offs will occur at different levels
(state, regional, local). Whatever the level, decision makers
need to consider the trade-offs between maintaining the
public benefits of healthy functioning ecosystems and
the economic benefits of expanding human use and
development.
Economists have devised a range of methods for estimating
the dollar value of ecosystem services that can assist
decision makers to consider different values in a common
currency and better incorporate non-market ecosystem
services into trade-off decisions.
Policy for decision-making
1. Consider ecosystem service values of coastal and
marine environments in decision making. This will
require a description and adequate assessment of the
link between the function of natural systems and the
goods or services it provides
Actions
1. Develop and implement environmental value
measurement systems and environmental accounts
that are consistent with international systems to:
a. establish clear standards for reporting on the
condition and value (natural, social, cultural and
economic) of coastal and marine assets and
identifying and explaining changes over time
(DEPI, DTF)
b. assist in prioritising the allocation of resources to
coastal and marine environmental activities
(DEPI, DTF)
VALUE&PROTECT
❮ Seastar (Nectria ocellata) in Port Phillip Bay Nicola Waldron

&PROTECTVALUE
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Desired outcomes
• Significant Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal cultural
heritage places are identified and protected, where
appropriate
• Victorians work in partnership to take account of local
knowledge and to care for cultural heritage on the
coast
Aboriginal Heritage
The Victorian coast is of great significance to Aboriginal
people. Thousands of Aboriginal cultural heritage places are
recorded along the coast and we continue to find more.
Recognition of Aboriginal knowledge of, and aspirations
for, country is an essential part of coastal natural resource
management (e.g. Land Management Agreements, and
involvement in fisheries management via the Aboriginal
Fishing Strategy 2012).
Map 2 identifies known Aboriginal cultural heritage places in
Victoria.
Traditional Owners do not distinguish between land and
sea; they see their traditional rights and responsibilities for
‘country’ extending across terrestrial, coastal and marine
environments. Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria is a
living culture based on the laws and customs of Traditional
Owners; it is not solely of archaeological significance.
Therefore, it is vital to give Traditional Owners a key role in
protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (the AH Act) recognises
Traditional Owners as the primary guardians, keepers and
knowledge holders of Aboriginal cultural heritage. In addition,
the Victorian Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (TOS
Act) provides a framework to recognise Traditional Owners
(based on their traditional and cultural associations) for
certain Crown land, and to advance reconciliation and
promote good relations between the State and Traditional
Owners. There is alignment between native title legislation,
the TOS Act and the AH Act.
Traditional Owners of Victoria’s coast formally recognised
under the AH Act as Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs),
some of whom have native title determinations and/or
Recognition and Settlement Agreements under the TOS Act,
are shown on Map 2.
As well as those groups that have been formally recognised,
there is a range of other Traditional Owner groups that assert
interests over the Victorian coast. They include:
• Eastern Maar peoples (including Kirrae Wurrung, Peek
Whurrong, Chap Whurrong, KuurnKopanNoot and
YarroWaetch peoples)
• Gadubanud peoples
• Woiwurrung peoples*
• Bunurong/Boon Wurrung peoples
• Nindi-NgujarnNgarigoMonero peoples
• Bidwell-Maap peoples
• Gunaikurnai peoples*
* for additional areas beyond their formally recognised areas
Non-Aboriginal Heritage
The Victorian Heritage Register lists all non-Aboriginal
cultural heritage resources that are of State significance.
The Heritage Council and Heritage Victoria are responsible
for maintaining this register and issuing permits for their
development. Heritage Victoria also maintains a register of
non-Aboriginal archaeological sites in the Heritage Inventory.
Heritage places of Local significance are identified in Heritage
Overlays in the local section of coastal planning schemes.
The Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Commonwealth) provides
protection for significant shipwrecks in waters outside Port
Phillip and Westernport Bays.
Managing Heritage Places
A range of impacts can threaten heritage places. For
example, visitation to heritage sites (known or unknown) can
result in physical damage, degradation or loss. Erosion and
inundation are also significant natural process that can put
heritage places at risk. The rates of erosion and inundation
are likely to increase with a changing climate.
Decisions are needed when heritage places are at risk.
Depending on the nature of the risk, the heritage value and
the movability of heritage objects, the management options
include avoidance, removal, relocation or protection.

VALUE&PROTECT
1. Significant Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultural
heritage places and landscapes will be identified and
where appropriate protected
2. Traditional knowledge will be integrated into coastal
planning and management in partnership with
Aboriginal communities (particularly through the use of
Coastal Action Plans and Coastal Management Plans)
3. Where applicable, coastal Crown land parks and
reserves will be co-managed with Traditional Owners
4. While maintaining the heritage and character values
encourage the re-use and interpretation of built
heritage places for community use and coastal tourism
Actions
1. Progressively update asset and heritage registers
and local planning schemes following comprehensive
identification, documentation and assessment of sites
on the coast and underwater. In particular, undertake
assessment of vulnerability of heritage places to
impacts of a changing climate (LG, AAV, PV, HV)
2. Pilot three indigenous knowledge hubs, to be
maintained by Traditional Owners/RAPs involved in the
co-management of public land, for the recording and
sharing of local/regional traditional knowledge
(DEPI, AAV)
Aboriginal midden at Point Roadknight Great Ocean Road Coast Committee

MARINE ENVIRONMENTS
Desired outcomes
• An integrated and holistic approach is used for the
management and planning of the marine environment
• Coastal waters, estuaries, wetlands and the terrestrial
environment are managed to promote healthy marine
ecosystems that support connectivity and adaptation
Victoria’s marine environments cover more than 10,000
square kilometres, extending three nautical miles from the
coastline. They include bays, inlets and estuaries, as well as
the exposed waters of Bass Strait and the open ocean. Most
waters are shallow, but some areas reach depths of more
than 100 metres.
Marine national parks and sanctuaries, which are primarily
established to provide added protection to examples of
biological diversity, cover around five per cent of the State’s
coastal waters. The remaining 95 per cent of marine areas
also provide significant intrinsic and community values.
Marine environments support a diversity of goods and
services that deliver benefits to the Victorian community
(including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, recreation, natural
coastal defences, and carbon storage). These benefits
depend on healthy and resilient marine ecosystems.
Significant, broad-scale impacts on the health and
productivity of marine environments are likely to occur across
Victoria. They include:
• a changing climate
• high demand for, and diversification of, marine uses and
activities
• marine pollution and catchment impacts on water quality
• invasion of marine pests and diseases due to altered
ocean currents or introduction by shipping and boating
movements
A changing climate
A changing climate could have a range of impacts including
sea level rise as well as changes in ocean currents,
temperature, salinity, pH and freshwater inputs. Each of
these has the potential to affect ecological processes and
marine biodiversity.
Victoria’s unique cold-temperate water species are
considered particularly vulnerable to changes in currents
and warmer waters, given the lack of continental shelf
habitat further south for migration. Barriers to migration of
marine habitats may already exist (e.g. seawalls, coastal
development, land use, artificially renourished beaches) or
may result from development or adaptation decisions. This
could lead to the loss of marine species that are endemic
to Victorian waters. It might also lead to the emergence
of species not currently found along our coast. This has
the potential to affect state and regional communities that
depend on industries such as fisheries, aquaculture and
tourism.
High demand for, and diversification of, marine resource
use and activities
As the population of Victoria grows, the demand for fishing,
aquaculture, tourism and marine energy will continue to
grow. This demand must be managed in ways that protect
the health of the marine environment while also minimising or
avoiding conflict between different users.
Table 3: Impacts of a changing climate on the marine environment
Threatening effect Potential Impact
Sea level rise and storm surge Loss of and damage to habitats, particularly in near shore and intertidal areas
Warming sea temperatures/ changes in
ocean currents and upwellings
Changes in salinity, and distribution and abundance of marine habitats, plants
and animals, including pests
Potential alteration in nutrient availability from upwellings
Ocean acidification Some marine animals will be unable to produce shells and skeletons, resulting
in disrupted/changed food chains
Changes to rainfall patterns Changes in delivery of nutrients from catchment runoff
Loss of connection between essential climate/ weather/ seasonal events
affecting marine plants and animals
&PROTECTVALUE

Marine pollution and catchment impacts
Most marine pollution is generated from land-based
activities. Stormwater runoff, industrial and household
discharges, and land management practices not making use
of best practices can all result in diffuse or point sources of
pollution.
Pollution generated in the marine environment is from
activities such as shipping, boating, oil and gas exploration,
fishing, and aquaculture.
Depending upon the types and volumes of chemicals
involved, this can result in: reduced water quality; habitat loss
and degradation; changes to the distribution, abundance
and health of species; incorporation of toxic chemicals into
marine animals; and bioaccumulation and consumption by
humans.
Dredging
Dredging activities can disturb seabed and associated
communities, reduce water quality if contaminated sediments
are disturbed and released, and suspend sediment in the
water column that may cause turbidity and smother seabed
communities.
Marine pests and diseases
Marine pests can attach themselves to boat hulls and
equipment, fishing gear and other equipment. Pests can also
be transported in seawater systems of boats, including in
bilge and ballast water.
Once established, removal is rarely viable and the pest
can spread to new locations. The introduction of marine
pests and diseases can lead to: changes in or loss of
habitat; changes to marine communities (e.g. consuming or
competing with native species) and food chains; and new
aquatic diseases, pathogens and parasites. While protocols
and approaches exist for addressing marine pests, their
effectiveness under future climatic conditions is unclear.
Integrated marine management
Managing these impacts is crucial to the health of marine
environments and the activities they support. It is important
that marine sectors work together to sustain the health of
Victoria’s marine environments.
1. Those features of marine areas that provide significant
environmental, social, cultural and economic value will
be protected
2. The threats (including cumulative and combined) to
marine environments will be assessed and addressed
at the scale most appropriate for system-wide
management
3. All dredging will meet best practice requirements
4. A comprehensive, adequate and representative
system of well-managed Marine National Parks and
Sanctuaries will be maintained and monitored
Actions
1. Develop a framework for an integrated management
approach to Victoria’s marine environments. This
would include developing agreed objectives for the
health and use of marine environments across all
involved agencies and spatial maps that identify
important environmental, social, cultural and economic
features of marine environments (DEPI, PV)
2. As part of the development of the integrated
Coastal Action Plans identify and map: marine areas
with significant environmental, social, cultural and
economic values. Also map marine ecological and
oceanographic processes, and potential threats
(RCB, DEPI, PV)
3. Implement agreed responses to the VEAC Marine
Investigation into the performance and management
of Victoria’s marine protected areas and ongoing
threats or challenges to their effective management
(DEPI, PV)
4. Update key policies and guidelines including:
a. best practice environmental guidelines for dredging
to reflect new benchmarks in environmental
controls for dredging activities and relevant national
guidelines (EPA, DEPI, PV)
b. protocols for detecting, reporting and responding
to marine pest incursions (DEPI, PV, EPA)
5. Develop improved understanding about the amount
of carbon stored in Victoria’s marine and coastal
ecosystems (DEPI)
VALUE&PROTECT

WETLANDS AND ESTUARIES
Desired outcomes
• The ecological condition of coastal wetlands and
estuaries, including Ramsar sites is protected and
improved
• Coastal waters, estuaries, wetlands are managed in
ways that support their natural connectivity thereby
ensuring the future health and resilience of wetlands
and estuaries
There are more than 100 estuaries in Victoria, varying
greatly in area, from large (e.g. Gippsland Lakes) to medium
(e.g. Barwon River) and small (e.g. Wye and Balcombe
Rivers). Some of the most important wetlands in Victoria are
located on the coast, including five that are of international
importance (Ramsar sites) and eighteen of national
importance.
Wetlands and estuaries provide an important range of
ecosystem services, like fish nurseries and protection
from wave action. They are also support recreational and
commercial activities like tourism and ports.
Townships and farmlands often surround wetlands and
estuaries. Land use activities can affect the health and
capacity of wetlands to provide benefits to the community
(Table 4).
Periodic closure of estuaries to the sea is a natural process
for some Victorian estuaries. Closures can be problematic
for human use of the estuary, and artificial openings may be
required to provide access to harbours for boats, or alleviate
flooding of adjacent land. Artificial opening needs to be
carefully managed to avoid degrading the ecological health
of the estuary.
A changing climate will have an effect on the functioning and
health of wetland and estuaries. For example, greater erosion
can led to loss of saltmarsh, reduced freshwater flows into
estuaries can change salinity regimes and more intense
storms can break through estuary entrances.
Wetlands and estuaries need to be able to adapt as the
environment changes if they are to continue to provide
community benefits. Their potential to adapt may be
diminished by barriers such as built infrastructure (e.g. roads,
buildings, levees), natural topography (e. g hills), and people’s
understandable desire to maintain existing uses on areas of
cleared land. If wetlands and estuaries are unable to migrate
and are therefore reduced across Victoria, fishing, tourism
and infrastructure will all be affected.
&PROTECTVALUE
Table 4: Land use activity impacts on wetlands and estuaries
Activity Impact
Artificial estuary entrance opening Fish death events, reduced water quality, interference with
lifecycles
Habitat modification (e.g. removal of mangroves) Loss of plants, animals and ecosystem services, invasion
by weeds and pests
Infrastructure (e.g. concrete banks, sandbanks, channels,
levees) and catchment development
Barriers to habitat connectivity and species migration;
pollutants, toxicants, sediments, nutrients entering
wetlands, estuarine and marine waters through stormwater
runoff; changes to salinity and inflow water regimes

VALUE&PROTECT
1. The integrated management of wetland, rivers and
estuaries will be guided by the Victorian Waterway
Management Strategy 2013
2. The impact of catchment pressures on priority wetlands
and estuaries will be reduced by:
a. providing adequate freshwater flows to protect, and
where possible improve, the health of wetlands and
estuaries
b. minimising or avoiding pollution from new
developments
c. reducing nutrient and sediment loads from existing
developments
3. Planning decisions should consider the impact of
development on significant wetlands and estuaries in
particular, linkages across land tenure, the potential to
fragment connected habitats, and impact on their future
adaption requirements
4. Management of wetlands and estuaries will be
encouraged by providing best practice guidelines,
promoting the best available science and when
necessary using regulations. This will include using:
a. Estuary Entrance Management System to guide
decision-making about the artificial opening of an
estuary mouth
b. Environmental Water Quality Guidelines for Victorian
Riverine Estuaries 2010 to identify management
actions to improve estuary health
c. Estuary Environmental Flows Assessment
Methodology to improve our understanding of the
environmental flow requirements of estuaries and
the operational management of environmental water
allocations fishing regulations and education to
support sustainable harvesting
Actions
1. Regional Coastal Action Plans will identify significant wetlands and estuaries that are vulnerable to the potential impacts
of a changing climate (RCB, DEPI, CMA, PV)
White mangrove (Avicennia marina) Hobsons Bay City Council

ONSHORE ENVIRONMENTS
Desired outcomes
• Improved health, resilience and connectivity of onshore
coastal environments across land tenures
• A well-managed, comprehensive, adequate and
representative system of coastal parks and reserves is
complemented by off-reserve conservation actions
Victoria’s onshore coastal environments contain a wide range
of habitats including beaches, dune systems, woodlands,
windswept cliff tops, heathlands and dry forests.
Population growth, increasing use, development pressures,
and a changing climate each individually and collectively
increase the risk that natural habitats will be fragmented or
lost. Unless it is managed, that risk could result in the loss of
diversity of plants and animals.
Barriers created by natural topography, roads, buildings,
other infrastructure, and cleared land mean that the natural
horizontal or vertical migration of ecological communities
such as saltmarsh or mangroves may be hindered or
prevented.
While the scale of the challenge may be significant, the
impacts of a changing climate may also create opportunities
for positive land use change and enhanced habitat linkages
to support biodiversity migration and adaptation strategies.
NaturePrint is an approach developed by the Department of
Environment and Primary Industries to integrate and analyse
the best state-wide information about biodiversity values at
the landscape scale. Strategic Natural Values maps created
from NaturePrint capture information about biodiversity
values, habitat condition and connectivity. These maps can
provide an initial indication of which onshore coastal areas
make a high contribution to biodiversity values refer to Map 3.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries has
also developed a methodology for identifying natural coastal
assets. This methodology is currently being trialled and
could potentially be used as the basis for identifying onshore
environments most at risk from the impacts of a changing
climate and increased use and development.
&PROTECTVALUE
Red-necked Stints (Calidris ruficollis), a small migratory wader Dean Ingwersen

1. The natural capital (ecosystem services) provided by
onshore environments will be considered in assessing
development proposals for coastal Crown land; it
will also be considered in decision-making about
adaptation to a changing climate
2. Land owners will be encouraged to revegetate and
landscape using species of local provenance, and to
eradicate environmental weeds on their property
3. Illegal foreshore vegetation removal and vandalism,
illegal access and encroachment of private property
and gardens onto coastal Crown land will be
addressed through education and enforcement
programs
Actions
1. Coastal Action Plans and park management plans
will identify coastal areas of ecological significance at
regional levels that require management (RCB, DEPI,
PV)
2. Make use of existing methodologies (developed by
DEPI) to determine natural coastal assets across the
state. Incorporate this knowledge into preparation of
the state coastal risk plan (DEPI)
3. Decision-making tools and market-based instruments,
such as a coastal tender program, will be developed in
partnership with landowners to protect existing habitats
and to establish habitat linkages between Crown land
and private land (DEPI)

VALUE&PROTECT
Carpobrotus rossii, commonly known as karkalla or pig face Fritz Balkau

CATCHMENTS AND WATER QUALITY
Desired outcomes
• Strategic planning for catchment, coastal and marine
management, and the prioritisation of on-ground
works is integrated through improved collaboration
between relevant agencies
• The quality of water entering wetlands, estuaries and
marine waters is improved on a priority basis through:
– improved wastewater and stormwater treatment
and re-use, with a focus on urban growth areas in
coastal catchments
– promotion of changes in land use and farming
practices to reduce the impact of catchment
discharges which have adverse effects on the
health of coastal and marine ecosystems
Catchments are connected from top to bottom and what
happens throughout the catchment has a strong influence
on water quality in coastal wetlands, estuaries and marine
waters.
Healthy coastal wetlands, estuaries and marine environments
provide important social, environmental, cultural and
economic benefits – including such things as safe and clean
swimming, recreational and commercial fishing, aquaculture,
and tourism potential. The health and amenity value of these
environments is affected by water quality. Many potential
activities can affect water quality (Table 5).
The National Water Quality Management Strategy provides
the context for water quality standards and planning at the
state level. The State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters
of Victoria), referred to as the SEPP (Waters of Victoria),
applies to all surface waters of Victoria and establishes uses
and values to be protected. The SEPP (Waters of Victoria)
aims to provide a co-ordinated approach for the protection
and, where necessary, rehabilitation of the health of aquatic
environments. Specific schedules contain more detailed
requirements that apply within individual catchments.
The Victorian Waterway Management Strategy and regional
waterway strategies contain actions to reduce catchment
impacts on downstream environments. Regional catchment
strategies demonstrate the connections between land,
water and biodiversity, and the human and natural activities
occurring there. The strategies also outline what needs to
be done to plan, manage, conserve and use natural assets
(including marine and coastal natural assets). Regional
waterway and catchment strategies are prepared by
Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs); five CMAs
border the Victorian coast.
Regional catchment strategies, regional waterway strategies
and regional Coastal Action Plans need to recognise the
physical interactions between catchment and coastal
processes and align management objectives and priorities for
improving estuarine and waterway health.
Table 5: Affect of activities on water quality
Activity Impact
Agricultural practices Excess nutrients can cause excessive algal blooms that result in fish deaths, loss of
other native water plants, reduction in public amenity, and public health implications;
chemicals including pesticides, herbicides, fungicides may result in loss of plants and
animals
Disturbance of Coastal Acid
Sulfate Soils
Release of acid and heavy metals may result in loss of plants and animals, corrosion of
concrete and steel structures and impacts on human health
Changes to land use and
habitat removal
Changes to land use and vegetation cover can increase turbidity; tree planting for
carbon storage can reduce water inflow to catchments
Urbanisation and Infrastructure Stormwater runoff (input suspended solids organic pollutants, heavy metals and
pathogens) can degrade marine habitats, cause a loss of plants and animals, or make
swimming unpleasant and unhealthy; flooding or reduced freshwater inflows can affect
natural biological processes (e.g. fish reproduction)
Sewage and wastewater
discharge
High levels of nutrients, bacteria and other pollutants, heated water, highly saline water,
may result in loss of plants and animals, public safety concerns
&PROTECTVALUE

A Cleaner Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay Plan of Action,
2012 has been established to address the issue of water
quality in Port Phillip Bay. Partnerships between government,
community and industry, and integration across sectors, are
being strengthened through this Action Plan.
Although Port Phillip Bay, Western Port and the Gippsland
Lakes will continue to be a focus for actions to improve water
quality, the challenges need to be addressed adequately
across all areas, including areas of the open coast. Regional
Coastal Action Plans can provide support to do this by
identifying specific water quality hotspots for priority action.
1. Regional catchment strategies, regional waterway
health strategies, and Regional Coastal Action
Plans will have regard to the physical interactions
between catchment and coastal processes and align
management objectives and priorities for improving
marine, estuarine and waterway health
2. New and renewal urban developments will be planned
and designed to reduce the effects of wastewater
and stormwater discharge on marine and estuarine
environments
Actions
1. Update guidelines and requirements including:
a. urban stormwater management for new urban
development, and facilitate and support best
practice
b. on-site wastewater management in sensitive areas
of the coast
c. State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of
Victoria)
d. Environmental Management Plan for Port Phillip
Bay (DEPI, EPA, DTPLI, LG)
2. Review and revise regional response plans for events
(such as mass fish deaths and algal blooms) in bays
and estuaries and on the open coast (DEPI, CMA, PV,
MW, EPA, DTPLI)
3. Implement the Port Philip Bay marine algal bloom
response protocol from A Cleaner Yarra River and Port
Phillip Bay Plan of Action (DEPI)
4. Expand the scope of water way health strategies to
include water quality from catchment inputs into bays
and inlets (DEPI, CMA)
VALUE&PROTECT
Adult Snapper in Port Phillip Bay Paul Hamer, Fisheries Victoria, DEPI

&ACTPLAN
PRINCIPLE 2
…ENABLING STAKEHOLDER
PARTICIPATION IN DEVELOPING
CLEAR DIRECTIONS FOR FUTURE
USE OF THE COAST

SUPPORTING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Desired outcomes
• Local communities groups and volunteers are
adequately supported and recognised for their
involvement in caring for and managing the marine
and coastal environment
Local action and involvement in the management of our
coasts is critical.
There are more than 200 coastal community conservation
organisations including Coastcare, and ‘friends’ groups.
There are also many community-based Committees of
Management, large and small, where people give thousands
of hours of their time to managing hundreds of parcels of
coastal Crown land.
Volunteers give generously of their time, knowledge and
energy to deliver on-ground projects that contribute to our
knowledge, improve environmental outcomes and make
a difference to local communities. The coastal volunteer
movement has also grown and matured over time with
today’s groups successfully delivering on large and complex
projects. Groups are also involved in more technical matters
contributing to policy and planning development.
Challenges that our volunteer groups and Committees of
Management face include:
• time consuming administrative and bureaucratic
requirements
• ill-defined operating boundaries and discretions
• complex management issues
• the changing nature of volunteering to accommodate
our busy lifestyles e.g. people seeking one-off (episodic)
volunteering opportunities rather than ongoing roles.
Active community involvement in coastal management is
fundamental if our coastal and marine environments are to
be maintained in a healthy condition. Community involvement
in ‘hands-on’ management (e. g. as part of a Coastcare
group) and in planning and decision-making (e. g. as a
member of a Committee of Management) will be supported
by strengthening, and building on, existing community
programs.
The Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011–2015 sets out
directions for engaging volunteers, building their capacity,
and supporting their participation. The recently announced
Coastal Environment Program continues to provide support
to the Coastcare Victoria program.
1. Participation of individuals and community groups in
the care, protection and management of the marine
and coastal environment will be encouraged and
supported
Actions
1. Implement the Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011–2015
and develop new pathways for coastal volunteers
to continue their work and improve the coast for the
benefit of all Victorians (DEPI, PV)
2. Provide opportunities for networking and knowledge
exchange between state, regional and local coastal
communities, planners, managers and other
stakeholders (RCB, VCC, CoM, LG)
3. Recognise and reward community leadership
and innovation through annual coastal awards of
excellence (VCC, RCB)
4. Undertake longitudinal social research on
community attitudes to Victorian coastal and marine
environments, conservation and management, with
an expanded emphasis on the extent and nature of
community valuation of the coast (VCC, DEPI) &ACT
PLAN AND ACT
PLAN
❮ Snorkelling in Norman Bay, Wilsons Promontory Matt Hoskins, Parks Victoria

SUSTAINABLE COASTAL SETTLEMENTS
Desired outcomes
• Sustainable coastal settlements are planned
to support a sustainable economy, a healthy
environment, and strong social and cultural values
• Green breaks are used between coastal settlements
to preserve the character of the coastline
Victoria’s coastal settlements play a variety of roles and
functions from urban and regional centres (like Geelong
and the Bellarine Peninsula) to smaller scenic towns (like
Queenscliff and Port Fairy). Other towns have grown around
commercial fishing or agriculture, such as Port Welshpool,
while others are known for their surrounding landscapes,
such as Wye River and Mallacoota.
Green breaks, settlement boundaries and coastal
character
As a coastal location remains a strong lifestyle choice
for many people, growth creates a challenge in meeting
infrastructure and employment needs in the future. Achieving
this balance means coastal settlements need to be planned
according to regional strengths and relationships, with
hinterland townships or larger regional towns forming
hubs for employment and services like health and higher
education.
The framework of coastal settlements is stated in the
Regional Growth Plans that are being prepared for Victoria
(Map 1). Regional Growth Plans focus on planning for an
adequate supply of residential and employment land for
the next 30-40 years. They will have an important role in
ensuring clear settlement boundaries, green breaks between
settlements, and relationships between settlements. It is
important that Regional Growth Plans identify coastal values
and address sensitive coastal areas in growth planning.
There is rich diversity in the landscapes that form the green
breaks between settlements along the Victorian coast. Green
breaks between coastal settlements are characterised by
natural or rural landscapes that help shape both settlements
and communities.
Some settlements will continue to face strong growth.
The demand for new housing and infrastructure makes
it challenging to maintain local environmental values and
coastal character. Coastal settlement characteristics may
include: architectural styles, patterns of subdivision, amounts
of vegetation and spaces between buildings. Coastal
&ACTPLAN
Port Fairy Robert Blackburn

Figure 5: Diagrammatic representation of the spatial location and possible features of activity nodes and recreation nodes
Recreation Node
Recreation Node
Activity Node
Township/Urban
Growth Boundary
P
P
P
LEGEND
Activity Node
Recreation Node
■ Coastal Crown Land
■ Business/Commercial Area
■ Residential Area
■ Marine Waters
Township/Urban Growth Boundary
Major Road
Road
Walking Track
P Parking
Toilet Block
Picnic Area
LFC Lifesaving Club
Pier
Lookout
Boat Ramp
communities need to identify the characteristics of their
towns that they wish to protect.
Economic opportunities arising from coastal resources
should be supported. The introduction of new rural zones
will support new land use and development opportunities for
tourism in regional coastal areas.
Activity nodes and recreation nodes
In coastal settlements, recreation and tourism developments
are focused around activity and recreation nodes. These
create efficient relationships between buildings and
infrastructure and they minimise development impacts on the
coast.
Activity nodes provide for community recreation facilities
and tourism activities. They are within settlements and
are adjacent to the activity centres identified in planning
schemes. They include public and private land (Figure 5).
Recreation nodes are located on coastal Crown land, outside
activity nodes. They provide access and infrastructure for
recreation and water-related activities (see figure 5).
Environmental considerations
It is policy to identify and avoid development in areas
susceptible to flooding, landslip, erosion, bushfire or
geotechnical risk and avoid disturbing coastal acid sulfate
soils (CASS). It is also policy to prohibit the development
of new canal estates to ensure the protection of coastal
and estuarine environments. Canal estates can have major
adverse impacts on the host estuary, causing loss of habitat,
polluting estuarine waters by urban runoff and boating
activities and disturbing coastal acid sulphate soils.
The Victorian Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils Strategy and
the Victorian Best Practice Guidelines for Assessing
and Managing Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils are resources
developed by the Department of Environment and Primary
Industries to assist landowners and land and water
managers to identify where disturbance of CASS is best
avoided.
&ACTPLAN

1. Clear settlement boundaries will be identified around
coastal settlements to ensure that growth in coastal
areas is planned and coastal values protected. Where
no settlement boundary is identified, the extent of a
settlement will be defined by the extent of existing
urban zoned land and any land identified on a plan in
the planning scheme for future urban settlement
2. Coastal settlements and growth will be appropriately
planned and managed by:
• supporting a network of diverse settlements as
outlined within the Regional Growth Plans to provide
for a broad range of opportunities and diversity
• implementing and reviewing coastal settlement
boundaries as part of the settlement planning
process, having regard to the best available
information on sea-level rise and the risks and
impacts of a changing climate
• facilitating growth into areas that will not threaten
wetlands and estuaries
• directing residential, other urban development and
infrastructure within defined settlement boundaries
of existing settlements that are capable of
accommodating growth
• encouraging urban renewal and redevelopment
opportunities within existing settlements to reduce
the need to expand settlements
4. Elements such as topography, estuaries, wetlands,
native vegetation, areas of environmental or landscape
significance and sensitivity and areas susceptible to
flooding (both river and coastal inundation), landslip,
erosion, coastal acid sulfate soils, salinity, wildfire or
geotechnical risk must be considered when defining
coastal settlement boundaries
5. Existing non-urban breaks between all coastal
settlements will be maintained to support community
identity, inspire a sense of place and limit urban growth
6. Linear development along the coastal edge and
major transport routes and within rural landscapes will
be avoided in order to preserve the areas between
settlements for non-urban use
7. Non-urban uses between coastal settlements will be
retained and visually significant landscapes, views and
vistas will be protected
8. Coastal acid sulfate soils (CASS) will not be deliberately
disturbed and any development proposed near or on
potential CASS must demonstrate that it will take all
steps to avoid any disturbance by applying the best
practice guidelines for managing CASS
9. The development of new canal estates will be
prohibited in order to protect coastal and estuarine
environments
&ACTPLAN
Actions
1. Revise the State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) in the Victorian Planning Provisions (VPP) to include the coastal
policy statements contained in the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2013 (DTPLI)

COASTAL HAZARDS AND NATURAL
COASTAL PROCESSES
Desired outcomes
• Natural coastal processes are adopted as the
preferred form of defence against possible impacts of
a changing climate
• New development (and alterations to existing
development) avoids areas subject to coastal hazards
and does not interfere with natural coastal processes
The coast is not static. It changes and moves with the
influence of tides, wind, waves and weather systems.
Interactions between these coastal processes and different
landforms (sandy beaches, rocky headlands, low-lying mud
flats and estuaries) create complex and dynamic systems.
When any of these systems has a negative impact on life,
property or other assets it represents a hazard.
Hazards such as erosion and inundation have always been
present, and require consideration in planning and managing
the coast.
To reduce the risk of coastal hazards Victoria has had a
longstanding policy to ‘avoid development within sand
dunes and in low lying coastal areas’. This is a sensible, cost
effective approach to the changing nature of the coastline.
A changing climate has the potential to make existing coastal
hazards more severe and to bring about increased rates of
erosion and more extensive inundation and flooding, in turn
posing greater risks to life and property.
An increase in coastal hazards would see significant pressure
on authorities and land managers to make wise land use
decisions which balance current use and development
opportunities and the long-term health of the coast.
A sea level rise planning benchmark provides consistency
for decision-making and reduces the level of uncertainty
for businesses, communities and individuals in managing
coastal hazards. The report Derivation of Victorian Sea Level
Planning Allowances sets out three suggestions for planning
benchmarks in Victoria:
• to plan for not less than 0.8 metres by 2100.
As this is consistent with the State Planning Policy
Framework, the planning benchmarks for sea level for
Victoria will remain as:
‘Plan for possible sea level rise of 0.8 metres by 2100,
and allow for the combined effects of tides, storm surges,
coastal processes and local conditions such as topography
and geology when assessing risks and coastal impacts
associated with climate change’.
‘In planning for possible sea level rise, an increase of 0.2
metres over current 1 in 100 year flood levels by 2040 may
be used for new development in close proximity to existing
development (urban infill)’.
This will be reviewed and updated as new scientific data
becomes available.
Further investigation into coastal hazards and adaptation
options for particular coastal areas will help inform strategic
planning for settlements and natural systems, and avoid
increased risk exposure for future coastal development.
&ACTPLAN
Beach along the Great Ocean Walk Mark Watson

Table 6: Summary of impacts from coastal hazards
Loss of coastal Crown
land
The coastal foreshore serves a number of purposes and is valued for its recreational and
community use, and as natural protection for property and assets. In some areas, rising sea
levels and more severe storm events will cause the coastline to move inland, and coastal
Crown land may be lost.
Damage to public
buildings and structures
A wide range of public buildings and structures on the coast provide access and amenity,
and improve safety for users (e.g. Life Saving Clubs, boat ramps, jetties, toilet blocks,
boardwalks and seawalls). Increased erosion and inundation can accelerate damage and
failure of these buildings and structures, which in turn can compromise user safety and
increase costs for maintenance and replacement.
Infrastructure damage Increased erosion and inundation can damage roads, undermine power lines, compromise
sewerage and storm water systems, and make car parks, roads and property inaccessible.
Loss of private land
and damage to private
property
Private land and public land are both affected by the same coastal processes. Some private
property owners are investigating installation of protection works to mitigate erosion and
inundation impacts on their land and property. Public bodies will be pressured to protect
private land.
Hard structures (e.g. a groyne or seawall) to mitigate erosion in a particular area will
commonly interfere with natural coastal processes elsewhere, which can result in the loss of
beaches and foreshore areas. This can have a significant impact on access to and use of the
foreshore by visitors and local communities.
At present, structures for the protection of private property must be located on private land
(not coastal Crown land) and these structures are discouraged if they will have an impact
on the surrounding coastline. Given the dynamic nature of the coastal processes any
proposal for protective works (on private or public land) should be considered and designed
as part of a larger ‘whole of coastal cell system’ e. g. headland to headland, not just for an
individual site. Additional issues arising from protection structures include responsibility for
maintenance, and liability.
Damage to cultural
heritage places and
values
In some areas, places or structures with significant heritage value are likely to be at risk
from increased erosion or inundation. This applies to a wide range of places, from shoreline
geological formations and fossil sites through to historic port facilities.
Settlement scale coastal
hazards impacts
Across Victoria, coastal settlements located in low-lying areas are already experiencing
occasional inundation. The National Report Climate Change Risks to Australia’s Coast (DCC
2009) suggests that between 27,600 and 44,600 residential buildings in Victoria may face
risk of inundation from sea level rise. The current value of the residential buildings considered
to be at risk is between $6.5 and $10.3 billion. Other towns, particularly those that were
historically built on old sand dunes, are experiencing erosion of local beaches and soft
sediment cliffs. For example, Dutton Way in Portland has been subject to long-term erosion,
with a 4.5km informal sea wall being built over the years to protect a road and residential
properties.
Threats to human health
and safety
Severe flooding may lead to landslips and cliff collapses, drowning, exposure, or water-
borne disease outbreaks. Significant damage to shelter and transport systems may lead to
extended isolation of individuals or communities.
These threats have significant potential to disrupt residents, visitors, tourists and industry, as
well as ecosystem services.
&ACTPLAN

1. Plan for possible sea level rise of 0.8 metres by 2100,
and allow for the combined effects of tides, storm
surges, coastal processes and local conditions such
as topography and geology when assessing risks and
coastal impacts associated with climate change
2. In planning for possible sea level rise, an increase
of 0.2 metres over current 1 in 100 year flood levels
by 2040 may be used for new development in close
proximity to existing development (urban infill)
3. For new greenfield development outside of town
boundaries, plan for not less than 0.8metre sea level
rise by 2100
4. Consider the risks associated with climate change in
planning and management decision-making processes
5. Ensure that development or protective works seeking
to respond to coastal hazard risks avoids detrimental
impacts on coastal processes
6. Avoid development in sand dunes, in low lying coastal
areas and in identified coastal hazard areas susceptible
to inundation (both river and coastal), erosion, landslip/
landslide, coastal acid sulfate soils, bushfire and
geotechnical risk
7. Use of the coast and the placement and life of assets,
both public and private, will respect the natural
dynamics of the coast
8. The Crown does not have an obligation to reduce the
impacts of coastal hazards, sea level rise and other
natural processes on private property
9. All protective works will aim to minimise detrimental
impacts on coastal processes and neighbouring
properties
10. Regional and local adaptation plans will enable the
strategic management of coastal hazards to private
property
11. Investment in coastal infrastructure, will be based on a
life cycle planning approach that takes account of:
a. projected future erosion and inundation patterns –
this planning will incorporate scope for the removal
and replacement of structures as may be necessary
b. cost benefit analysis that takes into account social,
environmental and economic values
c. future operating and maintenance costs and
accountabilities
&ACTPLAN
Actions
1. Share the findings and learning from the local hazards
assessment pilot projects and identify further areas
across Victoria where this process can be used
(DEPI, LG, CoM)
2. Identify areas of coastal land at risk of loss from erosion
and inundation in Regional Coastal Action Plans and
consider adaptation responses (RCB, DEPI, LG, CoM)
3. Develop a State Coastal Risk Plan to strategically and
consistently identify and prioritise coastal hazards and
manage risks to key state coastal assets (DEPI, PV)
4. Explore management options for Crown land that may
be eroded away – thereby limiting public access to the
coast (DEPI, PV, CoM)

Desired outcomes
• Integrated Coastal Action Plans balancing state-wide
policies with regional and local priorities
Place based management provides the building blocks for
managing the coast. Community groups, Committees of
Management, local government, and Parks Victoria have the
primary responsibility for delivering services to the public.
However, the management of a small local part of the coast
needs to have regard to wider regional and state-wide
strategic directions. This is the primary task of the Victorian
Coastal Strategy and Regional Coastal Action Plans.
A recent review by the Department of Environment and
Primary Industries identified the huge variance in the
capability and capacity of coastal managers across the
Regional Coastal Action Plans
A Coastal Action Plan (CAP) is a strategic plan that translates
the principles and priorities of the Strategy at a regional level.
The Minister for Environment and Climate Change, the Hon
Ryan Smith, has directed each Regional Coastal Board to
prepare an integrated Coastal Action Plan for its Region.
The Regional Coastal Boards are taking a coordinated
approach and have prepared a, ‘Framework for the
development of Regional Coastal Plans – Priorities for
Action’. The framework emphasises:
• Regional Coastal Boards will lead the development of the
Plans through an interagency partnership with other key
agencies and local councils. The partnership will seek to
agree on regional priorities for action.
• Plans should be succinct, visual, practical and evidence-
based spatial plans.
• The Plans will have a focus on regional values, issues and
priorities.
• The Plans will build on work in existing plans and
strategies, seeking to synthesize regional work and
adding value by addressing the gaps that fall between
the boundaries of existing agencies and are not being
addressed.
• Stakeholder and community engagement and
consultation will be critical to a good outcome.
Potentially the first output of the process will be a paper
highlighting issues and priorities for the different coastal
regions that will guide discussions with stakeholders in
determining the focus and priorities for the Plans.
Policy for decision making
1. Local communities, managers and planners will
be involved in the preparation of regional and local
strategic plans, that set the aspirations and priorities
for specific areas
Actions
1. Develop business models based on sustainable
revenue streams with coastal managers (DEPI, CoM)
&ACTPLAN

RESEARCH AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING
Desired outcomes
• Increased understanding and identification of coastal
and marine issues through research and monitoring
including through community programs
• Scientists, policymakers and decision makers
exchange knowledge in ways that ensure our efforts
on the coast are targeted, strategic and efficient
Timely and good decision-making on the coast requires
authoritative information based on science and evidence.
It also requires the collection of information, research and
monitoring in an integrated and multidisciplinary way. Citizen
science programs contribute to information collection
and monitoring of the coast; they also enable community
participation.
Improved scientific information on coastal, estuarine and
marine ecosystems and their underpinning ecological
processes is required to:
• establish better baselines for actual changes and local
variability in sea level rise, climate and non-climate drivers
(to target further observation and monitoring)
• better understand and predict future change to natural
and human systems (e.g. inventory of assets at risk),
especially thresholds under multiple drivers of change
• inform decisions about adaptation actions
Information, research and monitoring needs to be drawn
from a range of disciplines including natural resource
management, planning, water management, law, economics,
sociology, earth sciences, tourism and others. However,
often the sharing of information between planners,
managers, industry and the broader Victorian community is
difficult due to the number of different systems and research
programs in place.
The Victorian Coastal Council’s expert science panel is one
mechanism that has been used to draw together information
about the coast and marine environments from a range
of technical disciplines. The science panel also provides
independent advice about emerging scientific issues and
information gaps relating to the coast.
Strengthened coordination of data collection, improved
information sharing, improved knowledge transfer and better-
integrated communication can help to provide government,
the community and industry with the best available
information quickly and simply.
1. Independent technical advice will be sourced from a
diverse network of experts to monitor emerging issues
and assist with effective coastal, estuarine and marine
management in Victoria
2. Support the operation of the Victorian Coastal Council
science panel in providing advice from a ‘whole of
coast’ perspective
3. Promote on-going regional coordination and
communication mechanisms to maximise knowledge
transfer and practice around coastal and marine
management and planning
Actions
1. Develop or promote the use of existing central
platforms and databases for coastal planners and
managers that brings together relevant marine, coastal
and administrative data (VCC, DEPI)
2. Encourage collaboration between researchers and
managers to review research needs for coastal,
estuarine and marine ecosystems and key ecological
processes (VCC, PV)
&ACTPLAN

&ACTPLAN
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Desired outcomes
• Coastal and marine planners and managers are well
prepared for emergency events and are capable of
preventing, minimising, preparing for, responding to
and recovering from these events
A range of emergency events may challenge the coast and
the marine environment, for example: oil spills, bushfires,
marine pest outbreak, flooding, coastal acid events (from
exposure of coastal acid sulfate soils) and algal blooms.
With a changing climate, population growth and
development pressures, there is a risk that some of
these events will occur more often and with more severe
consequences.
Preventing, preparing for, responding to and recovering
effectively from emergency events requires communities,
industries and government agencies (commonwealth, state
and local) to work together to identify and minimise the
likelihood and consequences of emergencies.
Guided by the principles of community, collaboration and
capability in the Victorian Emergency Management Reform
White Paper (Victorian Government 2012), the strategic
priorities for emergency management in Victoria are to:
• Build community resilience and safety
• Streamline governance arrangements
• Implement effective response and control arrangements
• Strengthen emergency management planning processes
• Build capacity and capability of the emergency
management sector.
1. With an increased focus on risk, coastal and
marine planners and managers will collaborate with
stakeholders to facilitate an all-hazards all-agencies
approach to emergency management planning on the
coast
2. Responsible parties will support community-based
planning to consider a range of coastal risk factors
and vulnerabilities and identify how to mitigate those
risks
Aerial view of Sorrento Murray Adams

&ACTPLAN
Surf Coast beach A Norman

&ENJOYUSE
PRINCIPLES 3 AND 4
…ENSURING THE SUSTAINABLE
USE OF NATURAL COASTAL
RESOURCES AND SUITABLE
DEVELOPMENT ON THE COAST

SITING AND DESIGN OF BUILDINGS AND
INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE COAST
Desired outcomes
• New buildings and infrastructure exhibit excellence
in siting and design which complement, or integrates
with, the coastal landscape and setting, while also
avoiding environmental impacts
• The built environment on coastal Crown land is
confined to structures providing significant community
benefit and to those whose functionality depends on
them being near the water
Private Land
Buildings and infrastructure on private land generally support
the functioning of settlements. They include houses, cafés,
retail outlets, public halls and facilities for education, health
and industry.
While most coastal land is reserved in public ownership and
largely managed for its recreational values, development
on adjacent private land can impact on the coast. Specific
challenges include:
• identifying and considering important environmental and
social values associated with the coast
• promoting excellence in siting and design of facilities so
that they are sensitive to their coastal environment and the
surrounding coastal character.
Coastal Crown Land
Coastal Crown land reserves provide important public space.
They are owned by all Victorians, and they provide for access
to and use of the coast by the community. However, the
coastal public estate is limited in size, and it may be reduced
over time as sea levels rise and the coastline retreats.
Seasonal and residential population increases in towns on
and near the coast will lead to increased visitation. This in
turn will create demand for additional and improved facilities
on coastal Crown land. However, expansion of facilities and
infrastructure to meet peak demand can impact on important
social and environmental values that attract people there in
the first place.
Because coastal Crown land is a precious and limited
resource, only buildings and infrastructure that functionally
need to be located near the water, or which significantly
contribute to the social values of the area (e.g. the public
enjoyment and appreciation of the coast) should be located
on coastal Crown land. For example:
Would need to be located
on coastal Crown land
because of direct support
of coastal activities
Jetty, marina, mooring,
boat ramp, boathouse,
port, harbour, lookout
towers of Life Saving
Clubs, marine rescue
facility
Do not need to be on
coastal Crown land, but
provide some support to
the functioning of coastal
activities and may be
appropriate
Toilet block, pathways,
car parking, boating/
yacht club, BBQ and play
equipment, and (in urban
settings) kiosk/cafe
Do not need a coastal
location and does not
support coastal activity,
to be relocated as the
opportunity arises
Function centre,
community hall, non-
maritime industrial plant
and storage, non-water-
based sporting facility e.g.
bowling green, sports field
As coastal Crown land is there for all Victorians, a set of
criteria is available to assist planners and managers in
balancing the needs of the greater Victorian community
with local decision-making. Planners and managers need to
consider:
• whether building or infrastructure should be located on
coastal Crown land
• impact on the surrounding environment and users
• how it will be managed in the future.
USE AND ENJOY
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❮ Aerial view of Lakes Entrance Ken Stepnell

Criteria for use and development on coastal Crown land (including reuse and
redevelopment)
The following steps provide guidance for assessing
development proposals on coastal Crown land.
1. An important step in applying these criteria is to
understand the local context and values of the site.
In some locations, such as Wilsons Promontory, the
environmental values of the land are highly significant,
and any use and development must carefully consider
the impact on these environmental values. In other
locations, such as St Kilda beach in Melbourne, the
social and cultural values may be more pronounced
and may support a wider range of potential use and
development.
2. Use and development on coastal Crown land should
meet the following criteria:
Use of coastal Crown land
• Demonstrates need to be sited on the coast, based on
support for, and direct linkage to, coastal activities
• Demonstrates that the use and development cannot be
feasibly located elsewhere
• Demonstrates responsiveness to the site values and
that net community benefit results from the use and
development being located on coastal Crown land (net
community benefit will be determined by considering
the likely environmental, social and economic outcomes
of the proposal)
• Facilitates improvement of sites or developments which
have poor environmental performance and/or which
have limited benefit for the community
• Is responsive to environmental, social, cultural and
economic values of the location
• Enables equitable public access to the coast
• Is located in an Activity or Recreation node – Refer to
Figure 5
• Involves consultation with the local and broader
community
Siting and design
• Exhibits excellence in siting and design which
complements, or integrates with, the coastal landscape
and setting
• Is consistent with local planning scheme requirements
and Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on
the Victorian Coast and Good Design on the Coast
available at www.vcc.vic.gov.au
• Incorporates ecologically sustainable design principles
• Maintains important public views, vistas and sightlines
• Avoids coastal hazards, and is set back as far as
practicable from the coast and low lying areas
• Facilitates and does not impede access to and along
the shoreline and where appropriate consolidates
building footprint to use Crown land efficiently and
sparingly
• Contribute to the coastal environment through
rejuvenation and adaptive re-use of heritage places
Access and use
• Makes efficient use of the site and facilitates multiple
use and/or sharing of sites and infrastructure, including
car parks
• Enhances public access to the coast and minimises
loss of public open space
• Provides well designed, safe and convenient pedestrian
access
• Encourages access by transport modes other than
private vehicle
• Anticipates implications for the surrounding community
of demand likely to be generated by the use and
development
Environmental impacts
• Responds to risk of a changing climate including
inundation and erosion based on current scientific
knowledge
• Ensures that off-site impacts of the use or development
do not detrimentally affect coastal and marine natural
and cultural values
• Does not disturb coastal acid sulfate soils
• Utilises local provenance indigenous species in
landscaping and revegetation to enhance built
environments, provide habitat, and support the
resilience of the coast
• Incorporates environmentally sensitive design which
minimises development impact and footprint, and
incorporates energy and materials efficiency and water
sensitive design
&ENJOYUSE

1. Ensure the provision of buildings and infrastructure on
coastal Crown land is confined to structures providing
significant community benefit and to those whose
functionality depends on them being near the water
2. In considering proposals the ‘Criteria for Use and
Development on coastal Crown land’ be applied as
appropriate
3. Buildings and infrastructure on coastal Crown land
will be located in activity nodes and recreation nodes,
consistent with any relevant master plan. Existing
buildings and infrastructure that do not need to be
located on the coast will, to the extent practical, be
relocated away from coastal Crown land when suitable
opportunities arise
4. Leasing and licensing agreements on coastal Crown
land (including renewals) must consider the how they
can contribute to achieving the outcomes and policies
of the Victorian Coastal Strategy
5. Clear leasing and licensing agreements will be
established for commercial uses of coastal Crown
land. Associated rentals, fees, rates and taxes will
be competitively neutral to discourage the use of
coastal Crown land as a cheap alternative to private
land. The revenue raised will be directed towards
protecting, developing and maintaining the environment
and infrastructure in accordance with approved
management plans
6. The approvals processes for new developments on
private land in coastal areas will:
• Ensure the materials, colours and finishes of new
built form responds to coastal character using the
guidelines contained in Siting and Design Guidelines
for Structures on the Victorian Coast 1998
• Ensure new development is landscaped to be
consistent with the surrounding landscape character
and results in no net loss of onsite vegetation
• Ensure adequate permeable site area is maintained
in keeping with the character of the settlement to
maintain coastal character and minimize stormwater
run-off
• Ensure new development does not impede access
to coastal Crown land.
&ENJOYUSE
Actions
1. Revise the Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the Victorian Coast to provide contemporary criteria and
improved design guidance for coastal development (VCC, LG, DTPLI, PV)

VISITATION AND TOURISM
Desired outcomes
• A diverse range of visitor and tourist experiences is
made available
• Visitor and tourism developments exhibit exemplary
design standards and reflect the surrounding
landscape’s environmental and heritage values
Many of Victoria’s popular visitor and tourist destinations
are on the coast, including the Great Ocean Road, Phillip
Island Penguin Parade, Wilsons Promontory, the Gippsland
Lakes, and Bells Beach. All these attractions draw significant
numbers of visitors seeking nature-based and water-themed
activities.
Visitation and tourism is a key economic driver for Victoria
and plays an important role in regional communities along
the coast. Visitation and tourism encompasses a highly
diverse range of experiences, from passive to very active,
from urban to regional. These experiences go beyond
good beaches and views and connect visitors to the place,
environment and culture.
Recent changes proposed to rural planning zones may
increase discretion and flexibility for development in rural
and farming areas. As a result, uses that were previously
prohibited, such as tourism accommodation and some
retail development, may now be considered. This creates
opportunities for additional nature-based, heritage-
based or agricultural-based tourism, and ‘eco’ type hotel
accommodation.
In coastal locations, these opportunities for quality visitor
and tourist developments will need to be balanced with
policies which protect significant coastal features and
landscapes from the environmental impacts that can come
with high visitor numbers. Councils and regional bodies
are encouraged to undertake strategic planning to identify
opportunities and preferred locations for visitor and tourist
facilities and infrastructure.
&ENJOYUSE
Boardwalk at the Nobbies, Phillip Island Phillip Island Nature Parks

The Government recently released guidelines for tourism
opportunities in National Parks (Tourism Investment
Opportunities of Significance in National Parks Guidelines
2013). The Guidelines reflect the understanding that the
provision of appropriate and environmentally sensitive
tourism infrastructure can complement natural values,
enhance visitor experiences, and encourage visitors to stay
longer.
Crown land caravan parks and camping grounds
Caravan parks provide an affordable opportunity for many
Victorians to visit the coast. Some 84 caravan parks and
camping grounds on coastal Crown land along the Victorian
coast offer safe and affordable holiday experiences.
The policy Improving Equity of Access to Crown Land
Caravan and Camping Parks 2010 produced by the Victorian
Government aims to protect fair and equitable access to
caravan and camping parks, promote better environmental
outcomes, and assist in better management of demand for
sites in peak holiday periods. The policy also discourages
exclusive long-term occupancy, permanent residency, and
individual profiteering.
Coastal management generates significant revenue
from caravan parks and camping parks. Maintenance
requirements and demand for higher quality facilities continue
to grow. Expenditure needs to be balanced with other
priorities, such as environmental management, emergency
management, and wastewater management.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries is
currently preparing best practice guidelines for caravan and
camping park managers.
1. Strategically plan for and deliver sustainable and
equitable coastal recreation and tourism opportunities
that respond to an identified demand
2. Private land will be the preferred location for new
tourism developments, Crown land in coastal
hinterlands will only be considered for tourism
developments where no suitable private land is
available
3. Preference will be given to improving and upgrading
existing visitor and tourist facilities in suitable locations,
rather than developing new facilities on Crown land
4. Plans for visitor and tourist developments outside
settlements will take into account:
• significant landscapes, ensuring that developments
do not compromise the broader ‘open space’
characteristics of the coast
• protection of non-urban areas between settlements
and their significant values including areas of
environmental and heritage sensitivity
• tourism developments do not become new
settlements or create linear coastal development
• the impact on agricultural productivity of the area
• best practice ecologically sustainable design
standards
Actions
1. Suitable areas for sustainable visitor and tourist
development along the coast will be identified through
Regional Coastal Action Plans and local planning
schemes (LG, RCB, DTPLI) )
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ACCESS ON THE COAST
Desired outcomes
• Communities access the coast in ways that, minimise
the risks to public safety and protect coastal and
marine environments
• Community-based clubs such as lifesaving, angling,
yachting and boating clubs are supported in their use
of the coast in ways that provide access to and use of
the coastal environment by the broader community
Many parts of the coast are very accessible with high quality
facilities. Other areas can only support minimal or no access
to maintain a healthy environment. Some areas may require
seasonal closure to enable protection of threatened species.
Community based clubs play an important role in facilitating
access and enjoyment of the coast.
A key challenge for land managers is to provide appropriate
access in a way that minimises risk to public safety, can be
maintained in the long-term, and protect the health of the
surrounding environment.
It is neither possible, nor desirable, to provide a uniformly
high level of access to all parts of the coast. A long-term
strategic approach is needed to provide appropriate access
that protects the coastal and marine environments and
provides for increased visitation.
Management of car parking facilities and other infrastructure
including demand for new facilities will need to be
managed carefully in popular destinations to ensure that
built infrastructure and parking does not impact on the
environmental, social and cultural values of coastal and
marine areas.
1. Planning for access to the coast will recognise that:
• some areas of the Victorian coast are vulnerable to
erosion, inundation, landslip and as a result, not all
areas of the coast can or should be accessible
• access points shall be sustainable in the long
term and those that are not sustainable (such as
aging infrastructure that is a public safety risk)
should be identified as such and their removal or
refurbishment should be planned for over time
• access shall be designed in accordance with the
Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the
Victorian Coast and should have minimal impact on
the coastal environment
2. Public safety considerations will be addressed within a
risk management framework
3. Off-road access to coastal Crown land and beaches
by private vehicles is prohibited
4. Poorly used and poorly sited roads will be identified
and categorised for redesign, removal or relocation
– as required to achieve improved environmental,
aesthetic and safety outcomes
Actions
1. Establish priority areas for all mobility access needs
(PV, DEPI)
2. Implement programs that address risk from ageing
infrastructure, aquatic safety, access and emergency
events (DEPI, DTPLI, LG, PV, CoM)
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BOATING AND WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES
Desired outcomes
• A network of recreational boating and water-based
activity facilities that respond to demand, safety
considerations, coastal processes and the natural
environment
The variety of coastal waters in Victoria including sheltered
inlets, expansive bays (Port Phillip and Western Port) and the
open coast, provide diverse boating experiences.
It is estimated that there are about 200,000 recreational
vessels in Victoria. There were 166,709 boats with engines
registered in 2011, and more than half of these were based
in the central coastal region. Non-powered boats comprise
approximately 25 per cent of boats. About 98 per cent of
recreational boats can be transported by trailer, with the vast
majority being power boats. Direct expenditure on boating
for 2007 was approximately $1.4 billion for powerboats (GCB
2012).
As coastal populations and visitation to the coast continues
to increase, there will be demand for additional boating
facilities. This places pressure on funding the upgrade and
maintenance of existing boating facilities.
It is also important to balance the needs of recreational
boaters with those of other coastal user groups particularly
in sharing limited coastal Crown land and the water. While it
is important that some boating facilities, such as boat ramps
and jetties, are located on the coast, supporting facilities,
such as toilets, car parks, and clubhouses, may be suitably
located further inland and away from areas subject to coastal
hazards.
In all recreational boating activities the safety of boat users
is paramount. Using boat ramps on the open coast usually
requires extensive knowledge of, and experience with,
local conditions. Inexperienced users being exposed to
dangerous open water conditions is a risk. This risk should
be considered when assessing proposals for upgrading or
developing facilities.
Boating Coastal Action Plans (BCAPs) are useful in providing
guidance for the planning, management and funding of
recreational boating facilities (including new investment). They
are also useful a framework in which to consider the water
quality, environmental, safety and shared-access issues
associated with boating.
There are three BCAPs currently in place across Victoria
(Gippsland, Central and West). Together the BCAPs
provide a ‘whole of coast picture’ for the management
and improvement of boating facilities. The development of
new integrated Regional Coastal Action Plans will need to
incorporate this Boating CAP information.
The boating section of the Regional Coastal Action Plans will
need to consider:
• matching boating demand with strategically and safely
located facilities
• balancing boater and other users needs both on land and
in the water
• providing access to the water for a range of boating
users in accordance with the Recreational Boating Facility
Hierarchy 2030 (Map 4)
• minimising the impact of boating use and facilities on the
environment.
1. Strategically located boating and water-based activity
facilities will be provided in line with the Recreational
Boating Facility Hierarchy (Map 4) in ways that
respond to demand assessments, protect natural
coastal values, and consider other coastal users
needs
2. Effluent disposal facilities will be provided at strategic
boating locations to address illegal sewage discharge
from boats on a user pays basis
Actions
1. Include Boating Coastal Action Plan information in the
preparation of the new Regional Coastal Action Plans
(RCB, LG, PV)
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SUSTAINABLE PORTS
Desired outcomes
• Local and commercial ports are managed in ways that
add to the character, amenity and sustainability of the
coast
Both local and commercial ports play an important role in
supporting the Victorian and Australian economies.
Local ports
Local ports include facilities and activities such as wharfs,
piers, jetties, marinas, pump-out and refuelling, navigation,
emergency response, maritime security, marine pollution
response, vessel salvage, slipways, boat-lifting and boat
repairs.
Local ports have also become tourist destinations, with
thousands of people each year walking along or throwing a
fishing line from piers and breakwaters in local port areas.
Some historic ports, such as Port Fairy, are places with
significant heritage value and these attract valuable heritage-
based tourism.
Current local port and waterway management responsibilities
extend over municipal boundaries and also include areas
where other agencies have management responsibilities,
such as Committees of Management and Parks Victoria.
Local ports can affect the amenity, use and enjoyment of
nearby residential and other private land uses, as well as
coastal uses. Consultation, collaboration and integration
among the various stakeholders are critical to balancing the
diverse needs of user groups.
Commercial ports
The efficient operation of commercial ports is essential at
both state and national levels, with the Port of Melbourne
being the largest and the busiest container port in Australia.
Other commercial ports are located at Hastings, Geelong
and Portland.
These ports are Victoria’s trading gateway to the world,
providing access for exporters to more than 300 markets.
Commercial ports are focused on shipping activities including
docking, berthing, and cargo transfer activities.
Over the last five years, development in commercial ports
has included the deepening of shipping channels in Port
Phillip Bay and expanded docking/storage/handling areas in
the Port of Melbourne. In the coming years, the Government
is looking to expand the Port of Hastings as a world-class
container port, with landside transport connection to
Hastings.
Safety and Management Plan and Environmental
Management Plan
Under the Port Management Act 1995, all local and
commercial port managers must prepare a Safety and
Management Plan and Environmental Management
Plan, known as a SEMP. These plans cover risks such as
interactions between different uses (boaters, swimmers,
fishers), channel depths, oil spills, boat/ship litter, wash-
down/cleaning activities, dredging, marine pests and
amenity).
SEMPs are an important tool in promoting best safety and
environmental performance across all aspects of port activity.
Impacts of a changing climate
A changing climate, which can lead to increased inundation
and erosion, is likely to affect the facilities and activities
at local and commercial ports. In the future, the agencies
responsible for managing both local and commercial ports
will need to understand the likely impacts of a changing
climate and develop adaptation responses.
1. All local ports to be operated efficiently and effectively,
and to contribute positively to local character, amenity,
recreation, economy, and environmental values
2. All commercial ports should actively explore
opportunities to contribute positively to community
amenity, economic and environmental values
3. Development, maintenance and management of local
and commercial port infrastructure to address safety
and environmental risks and vulnerability to a changing
climate
Actions
1. Monitor risk mitigation strategies adopted by the local
and commercial ports for port infrastructure identified
as vulnerable to extreme climate events (DTPLI)
&ENJOYUSE

FISHING AND AQUACULTURE
Desired outcomes
• Commercial and recreational fisheries are managed in
a holistic, ecosystem-based management framework
• An ecologically sustainable and viable aquaculture
industry uses low environmental impact production
systems and implements best practice aquaculture
and environmental management
As wild fishery stocks approach the limits of sustainable
seafood supply, wise consumer choice is becoming
important and the Victorian aquaculture industry is playing
an important role in meeting local and global demand for
seafood products.
The most valuable wild-caught fishery sectors per annum
are abalone ($24 million) and rock lobster ($15.8 million).
Aquaculture is worth an additional $11.8 million per annum
(Worley Parsons, 2013). Victoria exports abalone, rock
lobster, eel, giant crab, scallop, urchin and jellyfish.
Recreational fishing is one of Victoria’s favourite pastimes.
The significance of recreational fishing to the community is
demonstrated by the participation of an estimated 721,000
Victorians (Ernest & Young 2009). Popular recreational fishing
areas include Port Phillip Bay and Western Port.
Artificial recreational fishing reefs have been established or
proposed for a number of marine, coastal and estuarine
environments. The deployment of artificial reefs is intended to
provide improved recreational fishing opportunities for people
of all abilities, both boat-and land-based.
History shows that without effective management and
control, fisheries can become overfished, leading to
significant ecological impacts, declining catches, the
collapse of fishing industries and economic hardship for the
communities they support. Ecological impacts of fishing can
include direct impacts on fish stocks and non-target species
(e.g. discards, birds and mammals), and general ecosystem
effects.
Fisheries are dependent on good water quality and
functioning marine ecosystems. Maintaining a healthy marine
environment is one of the most effective ways of ensuring
healthy fish populations and of supporting productive
fisheries.
&ENJOYUSE
Fisherman at Werribee beach Jon Hickman

While not all aquaculture is directly dependent on healthy
marine ecosystems (i.e. those located on land), good
water quality is required. Aquaculture has the potential
to pose risks to the Victorian fishing industry and marine
environments in general. Water exchange, and with it the
potential for disease transfer, between aquaculture farms and
the marine environment needs to be managed, particularly
with the spread of ganglioneuritis virus, affecting both
aquacultural and wild populations of abalone.
The effects of a changing climate like increased water
temperatures and changes in ocean currents will have an
impact on recreational and commercial fisheries. Some
current target species will be no longer available while other
new fisheries or aquaculture may evolve due to increased
habitat range and populations.
Considerations for management of fishing and aquaculture
As stated in the Fisheries Act 1995 fisheries management
and monitoring is to be aligned with the principles of
ecosystem-based management. Fisheries should also
be part of a holistic framework that considers multiple
species and marine uses. Management actions need to
accommodate inherent differences between recreational and
commercial fishers – such as the difference between being
focused on enjoying the experience of fishing rather than
being focused on generating a business return.
Management also needs to be informed by an understanding
of monitoring data about the marine ecosystems that
support different fisheries. Recreational fisheries are
generally data poor. For some fish species, the catch from
recreational fisheries can be equivalent to, or exceed, that of
comparable commercial fisheries. For instance, in 1999-
2000 the estimated catch in Victoria of recreationally caught
snapper was 332 tonnes (compared with 47 tonnes caught
commercially) and King George Whiting was 215 tonnes
(compared with 213 tonnes) (Ford & Gilmour, 2013).
1. Strategic directions and priorities will be established
for the management of significant risks to fisheries
and aquaculture (including those risks resulting from a
changing climate)
2. Biosecurity practices will be developed to address the
issues of water exchange and disease transfer between
aquaculture farms and the marine environment
3. Fishing stocks will be comprehensively assessed and
managed by:
• identifying and managing important fish habitats
• support for research
• developing harvest strategies
• increasing focus on ecosystem impacts of
recreational fishing
4. Safe and sustainable recreational fishing will be
supported through the provision of suitable facilities,
the enforcement of regulations and the encouragement
of recreational fishing stewardship, monitoring, and
behaviour change initiatives (e.g. TanglerBin, Seal the
Loop, Anglers Diary) and the inclusion of information
(such as details of biodegradable hooks and line, catch
and release techniques which maximise survival of
returned fish) in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide
5. The consumption of seafood from well-managed
fisheries and aquaculture operations will be encouraged
by supporting industry access to fisheries accreditation
programs, partnerships between industry and retailers,
consumer labelling and awareness raising programs
Actions
1. Undertake research to identify threats to key habitats
supporting fisheries resources and develop priority
actions to address these (DEPI, PV)
2. Assess fish stocks, measure fish catches and conduct
targeted biological research for key commercial and
recreational species (DEPI)
3. Implement the Victorian Climate Change Strategy for
Fisheries and Aquaculture 2008–2018 to facilitate
adaptation to the risks and impacts of a changing
climate in both the commercial and recreational fishing
sectors (DEPI)
4. Undertake research into the long-term ecological
sustainability and value of artificial reefs (DEPI)
&ENJOYUSE

COASTAL ENERGY RESOURCES
Desired outcomes
• The full suite of community and ecosystem service
values is considered when making decisions regarding
the planning and management or development of
coastal Crown land for energy resources
Renewable energy
Ongoing natural processes provide opportunities to generate
renewable energy. Victoria’s coast has potential to provide
renewable marine energy; wave energy is highest in the
western half of the state and tidal energy is greatest at the
entrances to large bays and estuaries. Prototype trials of
both wave-energy and tidal-power capture technologies
have been established in Victoria. Wave-energy capture
mechanisms are emerging technologies and it is not clear
when, or at what scale, these resources could be tapped in
the future.
Petroleum and gas
Victoria’s petroleum exploration and production industries
are located mainly in the Gippsland and Otway Basins.
Victoria has the second largest share of national petroleum
sales, accounting for around $3.6 billion per year (Worley
Parson, 2013). While much of the production occurs in
Commonwealth waters beyond Victoria’s three-nautical-mile
limit, the product is brought onshore into Victoria for refining,
storage and distribution.
Victoria’s gas production is increasing. In 2008 its annual
production was worth over $1.1 billion (DPI 2010), with the
large majority coming from offshore and coastal areas.
1. In planning and decision-making about the use of
coastal Crown land for energy resources, the full
suite of ecosystem services and community values
provided by marine and coastal environments will be
considered
2. When considering the use and development of coastal
Crown land for the purpose of harvesting marine
energy, the following principles will be used to assist in
decision-making
a. leasing and licencing arrangements should
maximise the public benefits derived from private
use of coastal Crown land
b. negative impacts on environmental, social, cultural
and economic values should be minimised
Actions
1. Outline the process for assessment, approval and
tenure allocation of Crown land for marine energy
activities (DEPI, DTPLI)
&ENJOYUSE
Twelve Apostles Mark Cuthell, Corangamite Shire Council

IMPLEMENTATION
…MANY ORGANISATIONS HAVE
A ROLE IN CARING FOR AND
MANAGEMENT OF THE COAST

IMPLEMENTATION
IMPLEMENTATION
Many organisations have a role in caring for and managing
the coast. These include volunteer groups, Committees
of Management, local councils, catchment management
authorities, regional coastal boards, government agencies
and industries.
Key elements for the effective implementation of the Strategy
include:
• lead agencies collaborating and working in partnership
• building the capacity and supporting coastal managers
• long-term financing for managing the coast
• effective and efficient regulation
• monitoring and reporting to understand if we are
achieving the vision
• a shared understanding of priority actions.
IMPLEMENTATION COORDINATING
COMMITTEE
In 2008 16 organisations were identified with leadership or
partnership responsibilities for implementing actions in the
Victorian Coastal Strategy. Consequently, a Coordinating
Committee was established to provide a ‘whole of Strategy’
implementation approach. The Committee developed
an Implementation Plan that set out priority actions and
identified gaps in resources and capacity to deliver on the
Strategy.
The Coordinating Committee proved to be a useful
vehicle for agencies to share ideas and coordinate
the implementation of actions – especially in times of
reduced funding and staff capacity. To build on this the
Implementation Coordinating Committee will continue to
operate and drive the implementation of the 2013 Strategy.
Table 8 sets out each agency’s responsibilities for actions in
this Strategy.
Action
1. Reconvene and support the operation of the Victorian
Coastal Strategy Implementation Coordinating
Committee (DEPI, VCC)
BUILDING CAPACITY AND SUPPORTING
COASTAL MANAGERS
Within the many organisations involved in coastal
management are scientists, policy officers, planners,
infrastructure managers, engineers and facilitators who work
with each other and the community. For Victoria to remain at
the forefront of delivering effective ICZM we need to ensure
there is a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. This requires
opportunities for learning (through degrees, diplomas and
certificates) and opportunities to share experiences and hear
the latest science.
Actions
1. Identify demand and encourage educational and
like institutions to offer training and development
opportunities for the coastal workforce (VCC)
2. Coordinate the delivery of a Victorian Coastal
Conference and support existing regional coastal
forums and networks (VCC, RCB, DEPI, PV)
FINANCING COASTAL MANAGEMENT
Currently over 60 organisations have responsibility for
managing coastal land. These range across large entities
such as Parks Victoria, Port Authorities and the Department
of Environment and Primary Industries, relatively well
resourced inner-urban councils in established areas, councils
in growth areas, rural councils, Committees of Management
that generate significant revenue and employ their own staff,
and Committees of Management that rely totally on volunteer
effort. There is a wide range of relationships between
councils and coastal land managers, with some local
governments playing an active role in funding and managing
coastal land and facilities, and others taking a more ‘hands-
off’ approach.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries
coastal management review identified the huge variance in
the capability and capacity of coastal managers across the
❮ People participating in coastal conservation Coastcare Victoria

Action
1. Undertake a review of the coastal management system
to assess whether current governance and financing
arrangements are optimal to address the impacts of a
changing climate and population growth (VCC, DEPI,
DTF)
EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE REGULATION
There is a range of regulation involved in managing the coast.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries has
a key role authorising activities and development on the
coast. The Department is currently involved in a number of
programs aimed at achieving more efficient and effective
regulation.
MONITORING, EVALUATING AND
REPORTING (MER)
MER involves Monitoring (collection of data), Evaluation
(assessment of the effectiveness of policies and actions), and
Reporting (documentation of the monitoring and evaluation).
MER is about being clear on: what is to be achieved over a
period of time (vision and desired outcomes); what will be
measured (indicators); and who is responsible for delivery
and measurement (lead agency).
While a degree of Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
(MER) has occurred over the life of the three previous
Strategies, incorporation of strategic MER into the 2013
Strategy may assist in understanding and communicating
how we are progressing towards achieving our long-term
vision for the coast.
This Strategy establishes a platform for consistent and
cooperative coastal and marine planning, management
and decision-making across a range of lead agencies.
Accountability for actions, adherence to policy directions,
and progress towards outcomes, rests not with the Strategy
but with those lead agencies.
Reflecting this, coastal MER for Victoria will need to occur at
three levels through:
• Victorian Coastal Strategy (state)
• Coastal Action Plans (regional)
• Coastal Management Plans (local)
When supported by standards and criteria for the collection
of marine and coastal data at local and regional scales, the
framework can be used to provide a ‘whole-of-coast, state-
wide picture’ of the health of Victoria’s coastal and marine
environments.
Successful monitoring will also require linkages to data
associated with other planning and management documents
such as regional catchment strategies, regional growth plans
and planning schemes.
This Strategy describes some elements for MER, including
the vision, desired outcomes, and policy directions. Appendix
F and Appendix G provide the first steps in developing a
MER framework by setting out desired outcomes and criteria
for developing indicators.
Action
1. Develop a MER framework reporting on the Strategy
(VCC, DEPI, PV, CoM, RCB)
IMPLEMENTATION

PRIORITY ACTIONS
Delivering on actions in the Strategy will progress our
knowledge, capacity and effectiveness for maintaining
a healthy coastal and marine environment. Some of
these actions are already part of organisational business
plans, while others are more aspirational and will require
opportunistic funding and a more concerted effort.
While all the actions are to be implemented by lead and
partner agencies, priority actions are those critical to
addressing the six key issues identified in this Strategy.
These are set out in the Table 7.
IMPLEMENTATION
Table 7: Priority actions for implementation
Coastal hazards and natural
coastal processes
1. Share the findings and learning from the local hazards assessment pilot projects and
identify further areas across Victoria where this process can be used
2. Identify areas of coastal land at risk of loss from erosion and inundation in Regional
Coastal Action Plans and consider adaptation responses
Managing population growth 3. Undertake regional strategic planning to identify suitable areas for sustainable visitor
and tourist development along the coast
Understanding the value of
natural resources
4. Develop and implement environmental value measurement systems and
environmental accounts that are consistent with international systems to:
a. establish clear standards for reporting on the condition and value (natural, social,
cultural and economic) of coastal and marine assets and identifying and explaining
changes over time
b. assist in prioritising the allocation of resources to coastal and marine environmental
activities
Integrated approach to
marine management
5. Develop a framework for an integrated management approach to Victoria’s marine
environments. This would include developing agreed objectives for the health and
use of marine environments across all involved agencies and spatial maps that
identify important environmental, social, cultural and economic features of marine
environments
Financing coastal
infrastructure and
management
6. Undertake a review of the coastal management system to assess whether current
governance and financing arrangements are optimal to address the impacts of a
changing climate and population growth
Balancing decision making 7. Develop business models based on sustainable revenue streams with coastal
managers
Keast Park Community Pavillion Frankston City Council

Table 8: Actions with lead and partner agents
VALUE AND PROTECT
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Appreciating and valuing the coast
1 Develop and implement environmental value measurement systems and
environmental accounts that are consistent with international systems to:
a. establish clear standards for reporting on the condition and value (natural,
social, cultural and economic) of coastal and marine assets and identifying and
explaining changes over time
b. assist in prioritising the allocation of resources to coastal and marine
environmental activities
29 DEPI DTF
Cultural heritage
1 Progressively update asset and heritage registers and local planning schemes
following comprehensive identification, documentation and assessment of sites on
the coast and underwater. In particular, undertake assessment of vulnerability of
heritage places to impacts of a changing climate
31 LG AAV, PV,
HV
2 Pilot three indigenous knowledge hubs, to be maintained by Traditional Owners/
RAPs involved in the co-management of public land, for the recording and sharing
of local/regional traditional knowledge
31 DEPI AAV
Marine environments
1 Develop a framework for an integrated management approach to Victoria’s marine
environments. This would include developing agreed objectives for the health and
use of marine environments across all involved agencies and spatial maps that
identify important environmental, social, cultural and economic features of marine
environments
33 DEPI PV
2 As part of the development of the integrated Coastal Action Plans identify and map:
marine areas with significant environmental, social, cultural and economic values.
Also map marine ecological and oceanographic processes, and potential threats
33 RCB DEPI, PV
3 Implement agreed responses to the VEAC Marine Investigation into the
performance and management of Victoria’s marine protected areas and ongoing
threats or challenges to their effective management
33 DEPI PV
4 Update key policies and guidelines including:
a. best practice environmental guidelines for dredging to reflect new benchmarks
in environmental controls for dredging activities and relevant national guidelines
b. protocols for detecting, reporting and responding to marine pest incursions
33 EPA DEPI, PV
5 Develop improved understanding about the amount of carbon stored in Victoria’s
marine and coastal ecosystems
33 DEPI
Wetlands and estuaries
1 Regional Coastal Action Plans will identify significant wetlands and estuaries which
are vulnerable to the potential impacts of a changing climate
35 RCB DEPI,
CMA, PV)
IMPLEMENTATION

VALUE AND PROTECT
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Onshore environments
1 Coastal Action Plans and park management plans will identify coastal areas of
ecological significance at regional levels that require management
37 RCB DEPI, PV
2 Make use of existing methodologies (developed by DEPI) to determine natural
coastal assets across the state. Incorporate this knowledge into preparation of the
state coastal risk plan
37 DEPI
3 Decision-making tools and market-based instruments, such as a coastal tender
program, will be developed in partnership with landowners to protect existing
habitats and to establish habitat linkages between Crown land and private land
37 DEPI
Catchments and water quality
1 Update guidelines and requirements including:
a. urban stormwater management for new urban development, and facilitate and
support best practice
b. on-site wastewater management in sensitive areas of the coast
c. State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria)
d. Environmental Management Plan for Port Phillip Bay
39 DEPI EPA, Water
authorities,
DTPLI, LG
2 Review and revise regional response plans for events (such as mass fish deaths and
algal blooms) in bays and estuaries and on the open coast
39 DEPI CMA, PV,
MW, EPA,
DTPLI
3 Implement the Port Philip Bay Marine algal bloom response protocol from A Cleaner
Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay
39 DEPI
4 Expand the scope of water way health strategies to include water quality from
catchment inputs into bays and inlets
39 DEPI CMA
PLAN AND ACT
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Supporting community participation
1 Implement the Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011-2015 and develop new pathways
for coastal volunteers to continue their work and improve the coast for the benefit of
all Victorians
41 DEPI PV
2 Provide opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange between State,
regional and local coastal communities, planners, managers and other stakeholders
41 RCB VCC,
CoM,
LG
3 Recognise and reward community leadership and innovation through annual coastal
awards of excellence
41 VCC RCB
4 Undertake longitudinal social research on community attitudes to Victorian coastal
and marine environments, conservation and management, with an expanded
emphasis on the extent and nature of community valuation of the coast
41 VCC DEPI
Sustainable community settlements
1 Revise the State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) in the Victorian Planning
Provisions (VPP) to include the coastal policy statements contained in the Victorian
Coastal Strategy 2013
44 DTPLI
IMPLEMENTATION

PLAN AND ACT
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Coastal hazards and natural coastal processes
1 Share the findings and learning from the local hazards assessment pilot projects and
identify further areas across Victoria where this process can be used
47 DEPI LG,
CoM
2 Identify areas of coastal land at risk of loss from erosion and inundation in Regional
Coastal Action Plans and consider adaptation responses
47 RCB DEPI,
LG,
CoM
3 Develop a State Coastal Risk Plan to strategically and consistently identify and
prioritise coastal hazards and manage risks to key state coastal assets
47 DEPI PV
4 Explore management options for Crown land that may be eroded away – thereby
limiting public access to the coast
47 DEPI PV, CoM
Balancing decision making
1 Develop business models based on sustainable revenue streams with coastal
managers
48 DEPI CoM
Research and knowledge sharing
1 Develop or promote the use of existing central platforms and databases for
coastal planners and managers that brings together relevant marine, coastal and
administrative data
49 VCC DEPI
2 Encourage collaboration between researchers and managers to review research
needs for coastal, estuarine and marine ecosystems and key ecological processes
49 VCC PV
Emergency Management: no actions
USE AND ENJOY
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Siting and design of buildings and infrastructure eon the coast
1 Revise the Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the Victorian Coast
to provide contemporary criteria and improved design guidance for coastal
development
55 VCC LG,
DTPLI,
PV
Visitation and tourism
1 Suitable areas for sustainable visitor and tourist development along the coast will be
identified through Regional Coastal Action Plans and local planning schemes
57 LG RCB,
DTPLI
Access on the coast
1 Establish priority areas for all mobility access needs 58 PV DEPI
2 Implement programs that address risk from ageing infrastructure, aquatic safety,
access and emergency events
58 DEPI DTPLI,
LG, PV,
CoM
Boating and water based activities
1 Include Boating Coastal Action Plans information in the preparation of the new
Regional Coastal Action Plans
59 RCB, LG, PV)
IMPLEMENTATION

USE AND ENJOY
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Sustainable Ports
1 Monitor risk mitigation strategies adopted by the local and commercial ports for
port infrastructure identified as vulnerable to extreme climate events
60 DTPLI
Fishing and Aquaculture
1 Undertake research to identify threats to key habitats supporting fisheries resources
and develop priority actions to address these
62 DEPI PV
2 Assess fish stocks, measure fish catches and conduct targeted biological research
for key commercial and recreational species
62 DEPI
3 Implement the Victorian Climate Change Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture
2008–2018 to facilitate adaptation to the risks and impacts of a changing climate in
both the commercial and recreational fishing sectors
62 DEPI
3 Undertake research into the long-term ecological sustainability and value of artificial
reefs
62 DEPI
Coastal energy resources
1 Outline the process for assessment, approval and tenure allocation of Crown land
for marine energy activities
63 DEPI DTPLI
IMPLEMENTATION
Action
Page
Number
Lead
Agent
Partner
Agents
Implementation Coordinating Committee
1 Reconvene and support the operation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy
Implementation Coordinating Committee
65 DEPI VCC
Building capacity and supporting coastal managers
1 Identify demand and encourage educational and like institutions to offer training and
development opportunities for the coastal workforce
65 VCC
2 Coordinate the delivery of a Victorian Coastal Conference and support existing
regional coastal forums and networks
65 VCC RCB,
DEPI,
PV
Financing coastal management
1 Undertake a review of the coastal management system to assess whether current
governance and financing arrangements are optimal to address the impacts of a
changing climate and population growth
66 VCC DEPI,
DTF)
Monitoring, evaluation and reporting (MER)
1 Develop a MER framework reporting on the Strategy 66 VCC DEPI,
PV,
CoM,
RCB
IMPLEMENTATION

APPENDICES
APPENDICES

APPENDICES
GLOSSARY
GLOSSARY
Activity nodes
Activity nodes are within existing coastal settlements and
correlate with existing activity centres under Melbourne 2030
which provide a focus area for access to the coast, services,
and social interaction within coastal settlements and coastal
urban areas, and link and integrate the public and private
realms within this area.
Aquaculture
cultivation of fish, molluscs and other aquatic organisms in
fresh or salt water for human use.
Biological diversity
the variety of life forms: the different plants, animals and
microorganisms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystems
they form. It is usually considered at three levels: genetic
diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity.
Canal estate
any development that requires a constructed waterway, canal
or water body that is then inundated by or drains to a natural
water body.
Carbon sinks
natural or man-made systems that absorb and store carbon
dioxide from the atmosphere, such as trees, plants and the
oceans.
Catchment
the area of land that drains to a watercourse or estuary.
Coast (Victorian)
broadly defined in this strategy to include: the sea and the
seabed to the state limit three nautical miles or 5.5 km; land
and inland waters in the coastal catchment.
Coastal acid sulfate soils
found in low-lying coastal areas these contain high
concentrations of iron sulfates. Relatively harmless in their
undisturbed (submerged) state, these soils produce and
release large quantities of sulphuric acid when exposed
to oxygen through excavation, dredging or drainage,
detrimentally impacting coastal and marine environs.
Coastal Action Plan (CAP)
identifies strategic directions and objectives for use and
development in a region or part of a region to facilitate
recreational use and tourism, and to provide for protection
and enhancement of significant features coast, including the
marine environment.
Coastal-dependent use
uses, and associated infrastructure, which depend on the
coasts’ natural assets and could not take place at any other
location.
Coastline
generally where the land meets the sea.
Committee of Management (CoM)
appointed under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 to
manage reserved Crown land on behalf of the Minister. For
coastal land, committees are either an agency, such as
Parks Victoria, Local Government, or community volunteers
appointed through an expression of interest process.
Crown land
public land not vested in a public authority, including land
temporarily or permanently reserved under the Crown Land
(Reserves) Act 1978.
Cultural heritage
qualities and attributes possessed by places and objects
that have aesthetic, historic, scientific or social value for past,
present or future generations.
Eco-based tourism
a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas
Ecosystem
all the organisms in a community, together with the
associated physical environmental factors (living and non-
living) with which they interact.
Ecosystem based management
an approach that seeks to manage human impacts in an
ecosystem, at any scale from an ocean, to a bioregion, to a
local estuary.
Ecosystem good and services
ecosystem goods (such as food) and services (such as
waste assimilation) are the benefits people obtain, directly or
indirectly from ecosystems. The services are classified into
four different categories (regulating, supporting, provisioning
and cultural services).
Effluent
a liquid, partially or completely treated or in its natural state,
flowing from a water or sewage treatment plant.
Environmental weed
exotic or Australian native flora growing beyond their natural
range that have, or have the potential to have, a detrimental
effect on natural values.
Estuary
the zone where a river meets the sea, influenced by river
flows and tides and characterised by a gradient from fresh to
salt water.
❮ Sea urchin Hobsons Bay City Council

APPENDICES
GLOSSARY
Foreshore
the coastal fringe; generally the land between the coastal road
and the low water mark.
Freehold land
refer to ‘private land’.
Geomorphology
science of the evolution of landforms and geological
formations and the processes that shape them.
Habitat
the area occupied by an organism or group of organisms.
Historic place
site, building or group of buildings with aesthetic, historic,
scientific or social value for present or future generations.
Indigenous species
an organism which is native to a given region or ecosystem.
Infrastructure
physical structures which facilitate use of the coast, such as
roads, paths, piers, toilet blocks.
Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM)
a framework that attempts to integrate planning and
management in a region, such as the State of Victoria,
across the land and sea interface and the private and public
land interface, to treat the coastal zone (which includes the
catchment) as one biophysical entity.
Intertidal zone
area between low and high tide which is subject to daily
changes in physical and biological conditions from tide
movement (also known as littoral zone).
Invasive species
an animal pest, weed or disease that can adversely affect
indigenous species and ecosystems.
Marine National Park
highly protected areas reserved and managed under the
National Parks Act 1975 that represent the range of marine
environments in Victoria, and in which no fishing, extractive or
damaging activities are allowed.
Marine pest
refer to ‘invasive species’.
Marine Sanctuary
small, highly protected areas reserved and managed under
the National Parks Act 1975 to protect special values, and
in which no fishing, extractive or damaging activities are
allowed.
Nature-based tourism
tourism that relies on experiences directly related to natural
attractions.
Planning scheme
is a legal document prepared by the local council or the
Minister for Planning and approved by the Minister under
the Planning and Environment Act 1987. A planning scheme
sets out policy and requirements for use, development and
protection of land. It consists of a written document and any
maps and plans it refers to.
Private land
land under freehold tenure (privately owned).
Public land
unalienated land of the Crown (refer to Crown land) or land
vested in a public authority.
Recreation nodes
areas located on coastal Crown land, outside of activity
nodes and existing settlements which exhibit a high level of
use and visitation for recreation and water-related activities.
Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs)
determined by the Aboriginal heritage Council with important
roles and functions in managing and protecting Aboriginal
cultural heritage in Victoria under the Aboriginal Heritage Act
2006.
Remnant vegetation
indigenous vegetation that has not been cleared, modified or
replanted.
Sediment
insoluble material suspended in water that contains mainly
particles derived from rock, soil and organic material.
Settlement
reference to a settlement in this strategy can include a
regional city, regional centre, district town, town, hinterland
town, small town, small settlement, rural centre or settlement.
Settlement boundary
the dividing line between areas where urban development is
expected (the settlement) and areas where non-urban or rural
expectations exist.
Sewage
household and commercial wastewater containing human or
trade waste.
Sewerage
the system which facilitates the collection, transport,
treatment and discharge of sewage.

APPENDICES
GLOSSARY
Social cohesion
the degree to which participants in social systems feel
committed to the system and the wellbeing of other
participants.
Stakeholders
individual or group with a vested interest in or affected by a
project or process.
Stormwater
rainwater that runs off streets and gutters, enters drains and
waterways and is eventually discharged to the sea; in Victoria,
stormwater is mostly untreated but may be filtered by traps or
wetlands.
Structure plans
planning tools that set out an integrated vision for the desired
future development of a place, and establish a planning and
management framework to guide development and land-use
change in order to achieve stated environmental, social and
economic objectives. Also known as township plans and
urban design frameworks.
Subdivision
division of land into two or more parts which can be
separately sold.
Sustainable use
the use of resources in a way and at a rate that does not
lead to the long term decline of biological diversity, thereby
maintaining their potential to meet the needs and aspirations
of present and future generations.
Traditional owners
people who, through membership in a descent group or
clan, have responsibility for caring for particular Country. A
Traditional Owner is authorised to speak for Country and its
heritage as a senior Traditional Owner, an Elder or, in more
recent times, as a registered native title claimant.
Urban growth boundary
a management tool used to contain urban areas and limit
their expansion. It divides land that is urban – to be used for
housing, shops, factories – from land that is non-urban and
to be used for purposes such as conservation, agriculture,
mineral extraction, airports and the like. An urban growth
boundary encourages urban consolidation and protects
valued non-urban areas from urban development.
Wetland
areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or
artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static
or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine
water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six
metres.
Walking at Surf Beach, Phillip Island David Hannah

APPENDICES
ACRONYMS
AAV Aboriginal Affairs Victoria – Central point of advice
on all aspects of Aboriginal affairs in Victoria.
CAP Coastal Action Plan
CASS Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils
CCB Central Coastal Board – See ‘regional coastal
board’. Region extends from Breamlea to Venus Bay.
CMA Catchment Management Authority – Established
under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994
to achieve integrated and sustainable catchment
management. There are five coastal CMAs in Victoria.
CoM Committee of Management – Appointed to
manage, maintain, improve and control coastal
Crown land reserves.
CSIRO Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial
Research Organisation – Australia’s peak research
organisation which provides scientific solutions to
industry, governments and communities around the
world.
DEPI Department Environment and Primary Industries
– Responsible for the sustainable management
of public land, water resources, climate change,
bushfires, forests and ecosystems. Promotes the
sustainable development of primary industries
including fisheries, agriculture, forests, petroleum,
minerals and energy
DTF Department of Treasury and Finance –
Responsible for providing economic, financial and
resource management advice to assist the Victorian
Government deliver its policies
DTPLI Department of Transport, Planning and Local
Infrastructure – Responsible for land use planning
and environmental assessment. Main provider
of essential infrastructure in Victoria, including
commercial ports, channels, rail and roads.
EBM Ecosystem-based management
EPA Environment Protection Authority – An
independent statutory authority set up to prevent
and control pollution on land, in water and air, and
industrial noise.
GCB Gippsland Coastal Board – See ‘regional coastal
board’. Region extends from the New South Wales
border to Venus Bay.
HV Heritage Victoria – Manage historic shipwrecks
and relics and recommend places and objects for
inclusion on the Victorian heritage Register.
ICZM Integrated coastal zone management
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
LG Local government – Significant influence over
coastal planning and management through planning
controls on private and public land, local by-law
regulations and many are appointed committees
of management over foreshore areas. There are 22
coastal municipalities in Victoria.
LPPF Local Planning Policy Framework
MW Melbourne Water – Manages Melbourne’s water
supply catchments, sewage treatment, rivers, creeks
and major drainage systems throughout the Port
Phillip and Westernport region.
PV Parks Victoria – Established under the Parks Victoria
Act 1998 to provide services to the State for the
management of parks, reserves, and other land.
RAP Registered Aboriginal Party
RCB Regional Coastal Board – The Western, Central and
Gippsland Regional Coastal Boards are established
under the Coastal Management Act 1995 as
strategic coastal planning advisory bodies. Their
main focus is advising the Minister and implementing
the Victorian Coastal Strategy at the regional level
through Coastal Action Plans.
SEPP State Environment Protection Policies
Prepared under the Environment Protection Act 1970
to provide the leadership, legal and statutory basis for
improving water quality in the marine environment.
SPPF State Planning Policy Framework
TV Tourism Victoria – Develops and markets Victoria
as a premium tourist destination for Australian and
international travellers.
VEAC Victorian Environmental Assessment Council
VCC Victorian Coastal Council
The Victorian Coastal Council is appointed under the
Coastal Management Act 1995 as the peak body
for the strategic planning and management of the
Victorian coast, and to provide advice to the Minister
for Environment and Climate Change. They have a
number of responsibilities under the Act, including to
prepare and submit to the Minister a draft Victorian
Coastal Strategy. They are also responsible for the
coordination and implementation of the Victorian
Coastal Strategy.
VPP Victoria planning provisions
WCB Western Coastal Board – See ‘regional coastal
board’. Region extends from Breamlea to the South
Australian.
ACRONYMS

APPENDICES
APPENDIXA
APPENDIX A LEGISLATION, PLANS, STRATEGIES, GUIDELINES
There are many federal and state Acts and regulations, and ongoing local, regional and state-wide policies, strategies and
programs that have outcomes which are important to the health, enjoyment and sustainable use of our coastal, estuarine and
marine environments. These include, but are not limited to:
Acts
• Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006
• Australian Maritime Safety Authority
Act 1990 (Cwth)
• Catchment and land Protection Act
1994
• Coastal Management Act 1995
• Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978
• Environment Effects Act 1978
• Environment Protection Act 1970
• Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
(Cwth)
• Fisheries Act 1995
• Fisheries Management Act 1991
(Cwth)
• Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988
• Heritage Act 1985
• Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Cwth)
• Land Act 1958
• Marine Act 1988
• National Parks Act 1975
• Native Title Act 1993 (Cwth)
• Planning and Environment Act 1987
• Pollution of Waters by Oil and
Noxious Substances Act 1986
• Port Services Act 1995
• Victorian Livestock Disease Control
Act 1994
Regulations
• Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007
• Environment Protection (Ships’
Ballast Water) Regulations 2006
• Fisheries Regulations 1998
• Marine Regulations 1999
• National Parks (Park) Regulations
2003
• Pollution of Waters by Oil and
Noxious Substances Regulations
2002
• Port Services (Local Ports)
Regulations 2004
Policy and strategies
• Aboriginal Fishing Strategy 2012
• Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011 –
2015 (DSE (now DEPI), 2011)
• Commercial port land-use strategies
(port authorities)
• Draft Metropolitan Planning Strategy
(DTPLI, 2013)
• Draft Victorian Waterway
Management Strategy (DSE (now
DEPI), 2012) and Regional Waterway
Strategies (CMAs)
• Great Ocean Road Regional Strategy
(DSE (now DEPI), 2004)
• National Cooperative Approach
to Integrated Coastal Zone
Management – Framework and
Implementation Plan (DEH (now
DSEWPaC), 2006)
• Regional Catchment Strategies
(CMAs)
• Regional Growth Plans (DTPLI)
• Strategy for Coastal Acid Sulfate
Soils (DSE (now DEPI), 2008)
• State Environment Protection
Policies (EPA)
• Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy (DSE
(now DEPI), 1997)
• Victoria’s Native Vegetation
Management – A Framework for
Action (DSE (now DEPI), 2002)
• Victoria’s System of Marine National
Parks and Marine Sanctuaries –
Management Strategy 2003-2010
(PV) (this will be updated once
the VEAC marine investigation is
complete)
• Victorian Aquaculture Strategy (DPI
(now DEPI), 2008)
• Victoria Planning Provisions,
including the State Planning Policy
Framework and the Local Planning
Policy Framework
Plans
• Coastal Action Plans under the
Coastal Management Act 1995
(RCBs)
• Management Plans under the
Coastal Management Act 1995
(CoMs), Fisheries Act 1995 (DEPI),
and the National Parks Act 1975
(PV).
• Port Phillip Bay Environmental
Management Plan
• Port safety and environmental
management plans (commercial and
local port authorities)
• Stormwater management plans (LG)
• Structure plans/township plans/
urban design frameworks (LG)
Guidelines
• Best practice environmental
management: guidelines for dredging
(EPA)
• Urban stormwater best practice
environmental management
guidelines (EPA)
• Committee of Management
Responsibilities and Good Practice
Guidelines (DSE (now DEPI), 2003)
• Siting and Design Guidelines for
Structures on the Victorian Coast
(VCC, 1998)
• Victorian Best Practice Guidelines
for Assessing and Managing Coastal
Acid Sulfate Soils
In addition, Australia is party to many
international treaties which influence
the use and management of coastal,
estuarine and marine environments.

APPENDICES
APPENDIXB
APPENDIX B WHO DOES WHAT
Many people and agencies have responsibility for, or interest
in, coastal planning and management.
Owners
In Victoria the Minister for Environment and Climate Change
has responsibility for all coastal Crown land on behalf of all
Victorians. Some 96 per cent of the coastline is in public
ownership, while 4 per cent is privately owned (with land
titles extending to the water’s edge).
Communities
Coastal communities and coastal-based groups play crucial
roles in coastal planning and management by contributing
their time and efforts, local knowledge and expertise.
Aboriginal people and communities also play particular roles
in planning and managing the coast, and making decisions
about coastal resources.
Planners
A large number of agencies undertake planning which
affects the coast, either directly or indirectly. Key legislation
includes the Coastal Management Act 1995, Planning
and Environment Act 1987 and the Catchment and Land
Protection Act 1994.
Local government has a role in considering and approving
planning permits on coastal Crown land and private land,
and in the nearshore environment, and preparing changes to
the planning scheme.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries has a
role in considering and approving Coastal Management Act
consents on coastal Crown land.
Government departments, regional coastal boards,
local councils, catchment management authorities and
committees of management are involved in strategic
planning be this at a state, regional or local level.
Public Land Managers
More than two-thirds of coastal Crown land is reserved as
national park, coastal park, marine national park or marine
sanctuary under the National Parks Act 1975. Parks Victoria
manages this land.
The remaining coastal Crown land is reserved under
the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 for various public
purposes. Committees of Management are appointed by the
Minister to manage this land. A Committee of Management
can be a voluntary community group, or an agency such as
Parks Victoria or a local government body.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries
manages small areas of ‘unreserved’ Crown land along the
foreshore, and most of the seabed.
Regulators
Other legislation stipulates how specific coastal uses
and areas are managed, particularly where these have a
significant effect on matters of environmental and cultural
significance along the coast. This includes the Heritage
Act 1995, the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, the
Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, the Environment Protection
Act 1970, the Fisheries Act 1995, the Commonwealth
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999, the Native Title Act 1993 and the Historic Shipwrecks
Act 1976.
The Environment Protection Authority regulates marine
and catchment based water quality. Port authorities, Parks
Victoria and Victoria Police regulate port and recreational
boating use. The Department of Environment and Primary
Industries and a number of Commonwealth departments
play a role in regulating environmental, cultural and fishing
legislation.
Researchers
Non-government organisations and tertiary institutions
play an important role in research, in association
with government. This advances our knowledge and
understanding of coastal and marine environments, and
informs policy development and decision-making.
Business and Industry
Many businesses and industries are dependent on coastal
location and resources, and have a critical interest in their
coastal and marine environment. They provide employment
and economic activity to the benefit of coastal and broader
communities.

APPENDICES
APPENDIXB
Figure 6: Coastal management and planning connections in Victoria
• A ‘healthy coast enjoyed by
all now and in the future’
• State-wide principles,
policies and actions
• State-wide guidelines
• Guidance for regional CAPs
• Roles and responsibilities
Victorian Coastal Strategy
• Strategic land use and infrastructure
directions
• Direction for accommodating growth
• Issues and challenges
• Coastal hazards
Standard provisions
• Environmental and landscape values
(coasts, coastal Crown land, coastal
tourism, bays)
• Environmental risks (coastal
inundation, erosion)
• Natural resource management
(water quality)
Victorian Planning Provisions
Regional
Catchment
Strategy
• Agreed tailored regional
vision
• Regional issues, threats and
gaps
• Agreed integrated strategic
directions
• Support for place based
management
Regional Coastal Boards &
Local Steering Committee
Regional Coastal Board
Action Plan
Waterway &
Estuary
Management
Plans
Environment
protection
policies, etc.
Resource
Condition
Assessment
Regional Growth Plans
(Private and public land in
designated area)
• Municipal strategic statement
• Activity node and structure plans
• Recreation nodes
• Coastal development policy
• Coastal hazards
Municipal Planning Schemes
(Private and public land)
• Land use controls
• Incentives
• Bush tender, etc
Freehold land
• Coastal management plans
• Master plans to guide development on coastal reserves
• Operation plans
• Budgets, etc.
The building blocks of Place based management of
public land (the building blocks of service delivery to
the public by CoMs, local government, Parks Victoria
and local community groups, etc.)

APPENDICES
APPENDIXC
APPENDIX C BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON A CHANGING CLIMATE
Storm events and storm surge
Sea level rise may cause some areas on the coast to be
permanently flooded by the sea, and other areas to be
temporarily flooded during storm events.
Areas on the coast which are currently flooded during a
storm tide may be flooded more often, and to a greater
depth.
Storm surge is a temporarily higher sea level created from
a low pressure weather system and intense winds. A storm
surge will have maximum impact when combined with a high
or king tide (known as a storm tide).
Flooding of the land by the sea due to storm tides can
also be accompanied by flooding from rainfall. This can be
particularly intense when large amounts of water from inland
waterways are unable to drain to the sea because of an
elevated sea level.
Sea surface temperature
There has been a recorded increase in sea surface
temperatures around Australia since the early 20th century.
The increase has been recorded as an average rise of 0.7°C
per decade (comparing 1910-1929 with 1989-2008). This
rate of warming is similar to the global average.
Although there is seasonal and spatial variation around
Australia, the greatest warming is occurring in the south-west
and south-east coasts.
Changes in sea surface temperature affect the strength of
ocean currents, such as the East Australian Current, and this
in turn affects cold water upwellings.
Ocean Acidification (decreased pH levels)
The natural biological processes of the ocean’s carbon
cycle result in net absorption of carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere.
The ocean is a weak alkaline solution, with a pH of around
8.1. Adding increased amounts of carbon dioxide lowers the
pH and makes the ocean more acidic. The pH of the oceans
has been lowered by 0.1 pH unit from pre-industrial times.
By the end of the century, the ocean’s pH has the potential
to drop to 0.2-0.3 units below pre-industrial levels (Australian
Government, 2011).
Ocean acidification reduces availability of the carbonate ions
on which many marine organisms rely to make shells and
skeletons from calcium carbonate. Many types of organisms
may be impacted by this, including zooplankton, coralline
algae, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish and molluscs.
Figure 7: Impacts of tides, storm surge and waves on sea level rise (source: CSIRO, 2007)
WIND WAVES
STORM SURGE
HIGHEST TIDE
MEAN SEA LEVEL
LOWEST TIDE
WAVE RUNUP
WAVE SETUP

APPENDICES
APPENDIXD&E
APPENDIX D COASTAL CLIMATE DECISION-MAKING TOOLS
Type Tool Description/Applications
Mapping
and
information
Victorian coastal inundation dataset Strategic planning
Projection of land area which will be inundated in different timeframes
(present, 2040, 2070, 2100).For state and regional strategic planning.
Planning General Practice Planning Note –
Managing coastal hazards and the
coastal impacts of climate change
Statutory and strategic planning
Guidance on managing coastal hazards, the decision-making process
for assessing coastal hazard risk, planning for development in coastal
areas.
Direction No 13 – Managing coastal
hazards and the coastal impacts of
climate change
Statutory planning
Requirements for the consideration of the impacts of climate change
on the coastal areas for amendments which would have the effect of
allowing non-urban land to be used for an urban use and development.
Government’s response to Coastal
Climate Change Advisory Committee
– Changes to State Planning Policy
Framework
Statutory and strategic planning.
Revision of the State Planning Policy Framework for an interim planning
benchmark of 0.2m for sea level rise by 2040 for infill development.
Guides Victorian Coastal Hazard Guide Best practice guidance on factors that need to be considered when
assessing risks associated with coastal hazards.
Guidelines for Coastal Catchment
Management Authorities – assessing
development in relation to sea level rise
Statutory planning
Criteria for assessing development proposals that may potentially be
affected by sea level rise (they do not apply to Melbourne Water).
Planning for sea level rise – assessing
development in areas prone to tidal
inundation from sea level rise in the
Port Philip and Western Port Region
Statutory planning
To assist Melbourne Water Services Planners in assessing development
proposals.
APPENDIX E ECOSYSTEM BASED MANAGEMENT GUIDING PRINCIPLES
1. Ecosystem conservation: All planning and management arrangements give priority to conservation of ecosystem structure
and functioning in order to maintain ecosystem services
2. Adaptive management: The management of human activities is modified in response to: feedback from monitoring, changes
in knowledge about marine ecosystems, changes in societal values, and technological development
3. Uncertainty and precaution: The uncertainty which characterises our knowledge of marine ecosystems and our
understanding of human interactions with marine ecosystems is recognised during decision-making, and the precautionary
principle is applied in decision-making
4. Comprehensive recognition of human uses and values: Planning and management take into account all human uses and
values in an ecosystem, including the cumulative effect of human uses. All relevant sectors are involved in decision-making.
5. Cooperation and integration of management arrangements: Planning and management arrangements embody inter-
agency cooperation and integration across jurisdictional boundaries.

APPENDICES
APPENDIXF
APPENDIX F MONITORING AND REPORTING
Theme Desired outcome Indicator Who
VALUE&PROTECT
Appreciating
and valuing
the coast
Improved methods for valuing ecosystem services are used to allow the
balance between competing coastal and marine values to be negotiated
transparently and systematically
Cultural
heritage
Significant Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal cultural heritage places are
identified and protected, where appropriate
Victorians work in partnership to take account of local knowledge and to
care for cultural heritage on the coast
Marine
environments
An integrated and holistic approach is used for the management and
planning of the marine environment
Coastal waters, estuaries, wetlands and the terrestrial environment are
managed to promote healthy ecosystems that support connectivity and
adaptation
Wetlands and
estuaries
The ecological condition of coastal wetlands and estuaries, including
Ramsar sites is protected and improved
Coastal waters, estuaries, wetlands are managed in ways that support
their natural connectivity thereby ensuring the future health and resilience of
wetlands and estuaries
Onshore
environments
Improved health, resilience and connectivity of onshore coastal environments
across land tenures
A well-managed, comprehensive, adequate and representative system of
coastal parks and reserves is complemented by off-reserve conservation
actions
Catchments
and water
quality
Strategic planning for catchment, coastal and marine management, and
the prioritisation of on-ground works is integrated through improved
collaboration between relevant agencies
The quality of water entering wetlands, estuaries and marine waters is
improved on a priority basis through:
• improved wastewater and stormwater treatment and re-use, with a
priority focus on urban growth areas in coastal catchments
• promotion of changes in land use and farming practices to reduce the
impact of catchment discharges which have adverse effects on the
health of coastal and marine ecosystems
PLAN&ACT
Supporting
community
participation
Local communities actively participate in coastal and marine management
and planning
Local communities groups and volunteers are adequately supported and
recognised for their involvement in caring for and managing the marine and
coastal environment
Sustainable
coastal
settlements
Sustainable coastal settlements are planned to support a sustainable
economy, a healthy environment, and strong social and cultural values
Green breaks are used between coastal settlements to preserve the
character of the coastline

APPENDICES
APPENDIXF
PLAN&ACT
Coastal
hazards and
natural coastal
processes
Natural coastal processes are adopted as the preferred form of defence
against possible impacts of a changing climate
New development (and alterations to existing development) avoids areas
subject to coastal hazards and does not interfere with natural coastal
processes
Balancing
decision
making
Local communities actively participate in coastal and marine management
and planning
Integrated Coastal Action Plans balancing state-wide policies with regional
and local priorities
Research and
knowledge
sharing
Increased understanding and identification of coastal and marine issues
through research and monitoring including through community programs
Scientists, policymakers and decision makers exchange knowledge in ways
that ensure our efforts on the coast are targeted, strategic and efficient
Emergency
management
Coastal and marine planners and managers are well prepared for
emergency events and are capable of preventing, preparing for, responding
to and recovering from these events
USE&ENJOY
Siting and
design of
buildings and
infrastructure
on the coast
New buildings and infrastructure exhibit excellence in siting and design
which complement, or integrates with, the coastal landscape and setting,
while also avoiding environmental impacts
The built environment on coastal Crown land is confined to structures
providing significant community benefit and to those whose functionality
depends on them being near the water
Visitation and
tourism
A diverse range of visitor and tourist experiences is made available
Visitor and tourism developments exhibit exemplary design standards and
reflect the surrounding landscape’s environmental and heritage values
Access on
the coast
Communities access the coast in ways that, minimise the risks to public
safety and protect coastal and marine environments
Community-based clubs such as lifesaving, angling, yachting and boating
clubs are supported in their use of the coast in ways that provide access to
and use of the coastal environment by the broader community
Boating and
water-based
activities
A network of recreational boating and water-based activity facilities that
respond to demand, safety considerations, coastal processes and the
natural environment
Sustainable
Ports
Local and commercial ports are managed in ways that add to the character,
amenity and sustainability of the coast
Fishing and
aquaculture
Commercial and recreational fisheries are managed in a holistic, ecosystem-
based management framework
An ecologically sustainable and viable aquaculture industry uses low
environmental impact production systems and implements best practice
aquaculture and environmental management
Coastal energy
resources
The full suite of community and ecosystem service values is considered
when making decisions regarding the planning and management or
development of coastal Crown land for energy resources

Evaluation assesses a number of aspects of a program or strategy, documenting for each aspect the answer to the question
‘why’ or ‘why not?’:
Evaluation aspects Potential sources of data
Appropriateness
• The extent to which the program is aligned with needs of
intended beneficiaries
• The extent to which the program complies with recognised
best practice
Needs analysis
Expert review
Participatory planning
Social or environmental impact assessment
Internal reflection on processes and outcomes
Periodic independent evaluation
Impact
• How and to what extent the program has contributed
to changing resource condition, practices, attitudes and
behaviours.
• Any unanticipated changes (positive or negative) which
have resulted
• The extent to which changes were directly or indirectly
produced by the program
Monitoring condition of resources
Expert review
Effectiveness
• The extent to which planned actions and outputs were
achieved
• Whether the actions were the best way to maximise
impact or whether alternative options may have been more
effective
• The extent to which the program achieved, or expected
to achieve, its desired outcomes efficiently and in a
sustainable way.
Review of logical relationships and causal links
Research and large-scale data sources
Expert review
Efficiency
• The extent to which the program attained the highest value
from available resources.
• Ways in which resources may be used more productively
and efficiently
• What could be done differently to improve implementation
and maximise impact, at an acceptable and sustainable
cost.
Auditing and financial analysis
Legacy
• Whether the impacts of the program will continue over
time, and after the program ceases
• How the legacy should be managed and by whom
Participatory planning and monitoring
APPENDIX G EVALUATION
APPENDICES
APPENDIXG

REFERENCES
Australian Government, Department of Climate Change,
2009. Climate change risks to Australia’s coast – a first pass
national assessment
Australian Government, 2011. State of the Environment
2011, Independent report to the Australian Government
Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population
and Communities.
Central Coastal Board, 2007. Boating Coastal Action Plan
CSIRO, 2007. Climate Change in Australia – Technical
Report. Australian Government, Canberra. www.
climatechangeinaustralia.gov.au
Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2013.
Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide
Department of Primary Industries, 2012. Aboriginal Fishing
Strategy
Department of Primary Industries, 2010. Victoria’s Petroleum
Industry: An overview http:www.dpi.vic.gov.au/earth-
resources/oil-gas/victorias-petrolem-industry-an-overview.
Viewed on 22 July 2013.
Department of Primary Industries, 2008. Victorian Climate
Change Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture 2008–2018
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2009.
Victorian Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils Strategy
Victorian Best Practice Guidelines for Assessing and
Managing Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils
Improving Equity of Access to Crown Land Caravan and
Camping Parks
Understanding sea level rise and climate change
Victorian Coastal Hazard Guide
Coastcare Victoria Strategy 2011–2015
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2012. Cleaner
Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay Plan of Action
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2012. Draft
Victorian Waterway Management Strategy
Environmental Partnerships
Victorian Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2013. Tourism
Investment Opportunities of Significance in National Parks
Guidelines 2013
Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure,
2013. Population and Settlement along the Victorian coast
Ernst and Young, 2009. Economic Study of Recreational
Fishing in Victoria
Ford, J. and Gilmour, P., 2013. The state of recreational
fishing in Victoria: a review of ecological sustainability
management options, a report to the Victorian National Parks
Association, Melbourne
Gippsland Coastal Board, 2012. Draft Gippsland Coastal
Action Plan
Hunter, J, 2013. Derivation of Victorian Sea Level Planning
Allowances
IPCC, 2007. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Fourth Assessment Report. Summary for Policy Makers
IPSOS-Eureka Social Research Institute, 2012. Coastal and
Marine Environment Community Attitudes & Behaviour (Wave
Four) Report
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005. Ecosystems and
Human Well-Being: Synthesis. Island Press, Washington,
DC.
Victorian Coastal Council, 1998. Siting Design Guidelines for
Structures on the Victorian Coast available at www.vcc.vic.
gov.au
Victorian Coastal Council, 1998. Good Design on the Coast
available at www.vcc.vic.gov.au
Victorian Government, 2012. Victorian Emergency
Management Reform White Paper
Western Coastal Board, 2010. Western Victorian Coastal
Boating Action Plan
Worley Parsons, 2013. Assessing the Value of Coast
Resources in Victoria
APPENDICESREFERENCES

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!h
!H!h
!h
!h
!
!h
!h
!h
!h
!H
!
!h
!H
!h
!
!
!h
&,!H
CHURCHILL
MOE
MORWELL TRARALGON
FOSTER
ROSEDALE
STRATFORD
COWES
DROUIN
INVERLOCH
KORUMBURRA
LAKES ENTRANCE
MAFFRA
MIRBOO NORTH
ORBOST
PAYNESVILLE
SAN REMO
TRAFALGAR
YARRAM
BAIRNSDALE
LEONGATHA
SALE
WARRAGUL
WONTHAGGI Tasman Sea
MALLACOOTA
Legend
Settlement Role
^ Regional City
! Regional Centre
!h Town or District Town or Key Hinterland Town
!H Small Town or Small Settlement or Rural Centre
!(
Settlement
Settlement Growth
!/ Major Growth or Promote Growth
!A Medium Growth or Support Growth
&, Sustainable Change or Low Growth or Limited Growth
National Parks and Public Land
National Park
Other public land
±Scale at A41:1,500,000
0 5025
Kilometres
APPENDICES
MAPS

MAP 2 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE AND TRADITIONAL OWNERSHIP
APPENDICESMAPS
DjaDjaWurrung
ClansAboriginal
Corporation
Martang
PtyLtd
GunditjMirring
TraditionalOwners
AboriginalCorporation
Taungurung
ClansAboriginal
Corporation
WurundjeriTribeLandand
CompensationCultural
HeritageCouncilInc.
YortaYorta
NationAboriginal
Corporation
GunaikurnaiLandand
WatersAboriginal
Corporation
BarengiGadjinLand
CouncilAboriginal
Corporation
Wathaurung
Aboriginal
Corporation
Legend
AreaswhereTraditionalOwnersareyettobeformally
recognisedthroughtheAboriginalHeritageAct2006(Vic)
BarengiGadjinLandCouncilAboriginal
DjaDjaWurrungClansAboriginal
GunaikurnaiLandandWatersAboriginal
GunditjMirringTraditionalOwnersAboriginal
MartangPtyLtd
TaungurungClansAboriginal
WathaurungAboriginalCorporation(tradingas
WurundjeriTribeLandandCompensationCulturalHeritage
CouncilInc.
YortaYortaNationAboriginal
IndigenousSitesofCulturalHeritageSensitivity
±ScaleatA41:3,000,000
05010025
Kilometres

MAP 3 NATUREPRINT STRATEGIC NATURAL VALUES
Legend
ArtificialImpoundment
WetlandHabitat
HighValues
LowValues
±ScaleatA41:3,000,000
05010025
Kilometres
APPENDICES
MAPS

MAP 4 RECREATIONAL BOATING FACILITIES HIERARCHY 2030
APPENDICESMAPS
APOLLOBAY
PORTFAIRY
MALLACOOTA
METUNG
LOCHSPORT
PORTWELSHPOOL
PORTALBERT
RYETORQUAY
INVERLOCH
SALE
GEELONG
PORTLAND
WARRNAMBOOL
PAYNESVILLE
MELBOURNE(includesDocklands)
HASTINGS
LAKESENTRANCE
Legend
StateMarinePrecinct
RegionalBoatingFacility
ScaleatA41:2,500,000
05010025
Kilometres
RYE
RHYLLCOWES
ALTONA
TORQUAY
NEWHAVEN
TOORADIN
STKILDA
FRANKSTON
MORNINGTON
MARTHACOVE
SANDRINGHAM
STLEONARDS
QUEENSCLIFF
PATTERSONRIVER
MORDIALLOCCREEK
PORTARLINGTONANDPOINTRICHARDS
WERRIBEESOUTHANDWYNDHAMHARBOUR
GEELONG
HASTINGS
MELBOURNE(includesDocklands)
(includesregionalfacilities
inFishermansBasin,
RoyalGeelongYachtClub
andSteampacketQuay)
0102030405
Kilometres
±±
ARegionalBoatingFacilityaccommodatesa
significantamountofrecreationalboatingin
appropriateconditions.Theseincludemultiple
boatramps,jetties,substantialcarparking,
safetymeasureswhererequiredandsignificant
onshorefacilitiessuchasfishcleaningfacilities,
washdownareasandtoilets.Asitesatisfying
thislevelofhierarchygeneratesasignificant
levelofboatingactivityfromawidecatchment.
Otherexistinglocalanddistrictboatrampswill
operateasprovidedinrelevantCoastalAction
Plansandmanagementplans.
Therecreationalboatinghierarchywillbecon-
firmedintheintegratedCoastalActionPlans
foreachcoastalboardregion.
StateMarinePrecinct
AStateMarinePrecinctincorporatesfacilities
ofinternational,national,state,regionaland
localsignificance.Theseincludeports,marinas,
charterboatfacilities,slipfacilities,waterfront
activities,marineservices,piers,jettiesand
ramps.Suchalocationwouldgeneratemajor
investmenttoharnessandusethesynergy
offacilities.
RegionalBoatingFacility
Note:

COLAC
HEYWOOD
WONTHAGGI
Legend
Other marine protected areas
Ramsar sites (coastal)
Estuaries across Victoria that are
pristine or largely unmodified
Marine natural assets
±Scale at A41:1,500,000
0 5025
Kilometres
MAP 5 NATURAL COASTAL AND MARINE VALUES – WEST & EAST VICTORIA
BAIRNSDALE
MORWELL
WONTHAGGI
Legend
Other marine protected areas
Ramsar sites (coastal)
Estuaries across Victoria that are
pristine or largely unmodified
Marine natural assets
±Scale at A41:1,500,000
0 5025
Kilometres
APPENDICES
MAPS

Draft_VCS-2013

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