Planning delays putting housing projects at risk

Published on 30 September 2026

Gannawarra Shire Council is urging the Victorian Government to tackle planning system delays that are slowing housing development and making it harder for regional communities to meet growing demand.

Lengthy approval processes and a lack of planning resources are creating barriers to new housing at a time when regional Victoria is being called on to support major economic growth.

The issue is particularly important for the Gannawarra, which is expected to experience increased demand for housing as major renewable energy, mining, agricultural and infrastructure projects progress across northern Victoria.

These opportunities were highlighted in the Resource Ready Strategy, prepared by Urban Enterprise and adopted by councils across north-west Victoria. The strategy identified significant economic opportunities for the region, along with the need for more housing to support workforce demand and population growth.

“We're being told regional Victoria has an important role to play in delivering housing, jobs and investment for the future, but the systems needed to support that growth aren't keeping pace,” Mayor Garner Smith said.

“Gannawarra is attracting interest from major projects that have the potential to create jobs and strengthen our local economy. To make the most of those opportunities, we need enough housing for workers and their families.”

Council has previously identified housing supply is one of the biggest challenges facing regional communities as they prepare for increased investment and workforce demand.

To help address the issue, Council is calling on the Victorian Government to:

• Accelerate planning approvals for regional housing developments.
• Increase planning resources and support for rural councils.
• Fast-track infrastructure investment that unlocks residential development.
• Better align housing policy with economic development and workforce planning.
• Prioritise regional Victoria in reforms aimed at increasing housing supply.

“Housing is the foundation that allows communities to grow and businesses to attract workers,” Mayor Smith said.

“If we're serious about creating jobs and supporting economic development in regional Victoria, we need a planning system that helps deliver homes sooner, not one that slows projects down.”

“Regional communities stand ready to do their part, but we need the support and investment required to turn opportunity into reality.”

Council will continue advocating for planning reforms and additional support to ensure regional communities can accommodate growth, attract investment and share in the long-term benefits of major economic development projects.