We recently attended a workshop conducted by Bushfire Planning (KH Planning Services), explaining recent developments in bushfire assessment in Victoria.
Thank you Kevin Hazell for leading this informative session. These were our 3 top takeaways:
Clause 71.02-3 (VC140) calls for a mandatory prioritising and protection of human life above all other policy considerations in bushfire affected areas.
Clause 13.02 specifies seven key considerations in planning for bushfire these are:
Landscape bushfire considerations;
Alternative locations for development;
Availability of safe areas;
The views of the relevant fire authority and other relevant agencies;
Site based exposure;
Areas of high biodiversity conservation value;
No increase in risk.
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning v Yarra Ranges SC (Red Dot) [2019] VCAT 323 found that:
Bushfire risk should be considered not solely from a site or immediate local perspective but from a wider landscape perspective;
Planning for bushfire is not a ‘tick the box’ approach and must satisfy the policy framework;
13.02 is unequivocal in directing development to low risk locations when addressing ‘protection of human life’;
Bushfire shelter and evacuating the site on code red days is not enough to reduce extreme risk of bushfire.
Are you considering building in a bushfire prone area? Contact Plans in Motion today to discuss how we can assist you.