Shifting Victoria's emphasis in land-use planning for bushfire: towards a place-based approach

Land-use planning has traditionally been considered a powerful mechanism for the reduction of bushfire risk. However, its potential has not been fully acted on. Urban planners have relied heavily on fire agencies to provide advice and to make decisions, rather than using statutory mechanisms in a complementary manner. Bushfire risk has tended to be 'balanced' against other factors in making planning assessments. This paper shows how changes to the provisions in Victoria are providing a platform for more proactive and place-based land use planning approaches to bushfire risks, prioritising the protection of human life.