Have your say on proposed rural dwelling excision guidelines

Published on 18 September 2026

Residents are encouraged to have their say on proposed new guidelines and a supporting policy that will guide the assessment of rural dwelling excisions within Farming Zone land across the Gannawarra Shire.

Developed to replace the existing Rural Excision Guidelines adopted in 2011, the proposed Rural Dwelling Excision for the Farming Zone Policy and Rural Dwelling Excision Assessment Guidelines provide a contemporary framework aligned with current planning legislation and strategic planning objectives.

The proposed policy focuses on protecting productive agricultural land, supporting ongoing farming activities, minimising land use conflicts and providing consistent decision-making. The accompanying guidelines outline the assessment criteria and information requirements for rural dwelling excision applications.

“Rural dwelling excisions can have long-term implications for agricultural productivity, land use planning and the future of our farming sector,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson, said.

“These proposed documents establish a clear and transparent framework that will help ensure decisions support the ongoing viability of agricultural enterprises while protecting productive farming land from unnecessary fragmentation.

“Landowners, farmers, planning professionals and interested residents are encouraged to review the proposed documents and provide feedback during the consultation period. This will help ensure the final policy and guidelines reflect local knowledge, community expectations and the long-term interests of the Gannawarra Shire.”

Residents can have their say on the proposed Rural Dwelling Excision for the Farming Zone Policy and Rural Dwelling Excision Assessment Guidelines until 5pm on Friday, 9 October in one of the following ways:

• By completing a Have Your Say form, available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay or from Council's Customer Service Centres in Cohuna and Kerang.
• By emailing council@gsc.vic.gov.au
• By writing to PO Box 287, Kerang VIC 3579.
• By phoning Council on (03) 5450 9333.

“All feedback received will assist in the development of the final version of the proposed Rural Dwelling Excision for the Farming Zone Policy and Rural Dwelling Excision Assessment Guidelines, which will be presented to Council at a later date for consideration and adoption,” Mr Rollinson said.