The Property Council of Australia (Victoria Division) today released their pre-budget submission calling on the Government to cut red-tape and increase investment to stimulate the economy.
The Property Council has called on the Government to establish a Victorian Planning Authority to take control of planning decisions across Victoria, cutting red tape and coordinating the myriad of agencies.
Property Council executive director, Jennifer Cunich, said the Government has a responsibility to deliver a world class planning system through coordinated delivery for metropolitan, regional and rural planning decisions.
“The establishment of the Growth Areas Authority by the Government to coordinate outer-urban development is evidence that projects of significance should fall to a coordinating body for their delivery,” said Ms Cunich.
“If this is true for outer-urban Melbourne, then the rationale should be carried to the entire State,
“The delivery of Melbourne 2030 and Melbourne’s future liveability rests heavily on such a body being able to adequately and efficiently deliver the projects and infrastructure required to make the plan a reality,” said Ms Cunich.
A Victorian Planning Authority would be responsible for all areas on metropolitan planning - tax arrangements, public transport, infrastructure and infill development as part of its role.
“The State faces major issues over the next few years and it is hoped the Government will address them head on. Investing in infrastructure, creating a competitive tax environment and encouraging appropriate development in infill areas are all part of implementing the strategic plan for Melbourne,” said Ms. Cunich.
The Property Council strongly urges the Government not to follow New South Wales and Queensland by increasing land tax.
“Increasing taxes does nothing to stimulate the economy and will only exacerbate the fall-out from the global financial crisis,
“We are calling on the Government to stimulate the economy through greater investment in infrastructure development so Victoria can maintain its competitive advantage as Australia’s most liveable state,” said Ms Cunich.
Other Property Council recommendations include:
- Abolish the car parking tax until Melburnians have a public transport system that is not overcrowded, runs on time and is safe;
- Establish a Green Tune Up program to provide building owners incentives to retro-fit commercial buildings;
- Increase its debt capacity to fund major infrastructure projects and fast track capital works projects; and
- Fast track capital works projects.
“Victoria is in an enviable position to introduce policies that attract investment through competitive tax rates, facilitate the rapid delivery of infrastructure and improve liveability through effective planning strategies. We want Victoria on the front foot in these key policy areas,” said Ms Cunich.
For further comments contact:
Jennifer Cunich, Executive Director (03) 9650 8300
Rachel Saunders, Public Affairs Manager (03) 9664 4230 or 0408 861 408
