Step forward in water governance battle

The push for a single body to govern Docklands’ waterways was strengthened last month when Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville agreed to champion the cause.

Docklands Chamber of Commerce president Joh Maxwell, vice-president Bill Reid and Docklands resident Kay Setches met with Ms Neville last month to explain why a single governance structure was needed in Docklands and the Lower Yarra.

Currently there are at least 15 intersecting Acts governing various parts of the Lower Yarra and Docklands waterways, resulting in bureaucratic paralysis and difficulty introducing reforms that would activate the waterways.

“The outcome of the meeting is that Minister Neville has confirmed that she will be our champion for change to a single model of governance,” Mrs Maxwell said.

“Minister Neville indicated that she will be discussing this with the Ministers for ports, tourism and planning and will confirm with them that she is enthusiastic in her support.”

Ms Maxwell said a senior member of Minister Neville’s team would continue to work with the chamber to facilitate the next steps in the process.

Meanwhile, the Lower Yarra River Use Future Directions Group, is expected to make its report to the government this month.

The group, which includes representatives from industry and government groups, is charged with making recommendations regarding the future governance and management of the waterways.