The future of Victoria’s iconic Yarra River is set to be shaped by a community-driven vision, which has been developed under the Yarra Strategic Plan led by Melbourne Water.
In a first for an urban waterway in Australia, the vision outlines the long-term aspirations for the Yarra and will provide strategic direction for land use.
The collaboration included community, the Wurundjeri and partner organisations, with more than 12 months of consultation, with more than 2000 people outlining what was important to them about the Yarra.
Victorian Minister for Water Lisa Neville said the community focus aimed to ensure values aligned with community and traditional owners, as well as other stakeholders.
“The Yarra River Action Plan is about taking meaningful steps so Birrarung – our iconic Yarra River – can continue to thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come,” she said.
The vision is also a requirement of the Yarra River Protection (Willip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017, which mandates structural inclusion for the Wurundjeri Traditional Owners.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne said the vision provides more of a balance between economic value with other crucial aspects of sustainability and livability.
“The community vision for the river highlights the cultural, recreational, environmental and economic value of the Yarra and we will use it to guide our priorities for this important landmark,” he said.
Member for Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines said: “We all have a responsibility to secure a healthy future for the Yarra.”
“Our community-led approach encourages everyone to be an advocate for Melbourne’s most significant waterway.”
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by Water Source
