A member of East Gippsland Shire Council's Statutory Planning team is heading to Mallacoota this month, bringing planning advice closer to home for our rural communities.

The Mallacoota Service Centre will host the session on Monday 17 August, from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm, giving residents the chance to speak directly with a Council planner about land use and development matters.

The first Planning Roadshow session took place in Omeo in February, attracting a strong turnout from the community. Residents appreciated having the opportunity to have their questions answered and receive advice on planning matters right in their own town.

The roadshow is designed to help the community better understand statutory planning and answer common questions, including whether a planning permit is required, what approvals may be needed before building, and how the planning scheme applies to their property.

Council's Statutory Planning team is responsible for assessing planning permit applications and ensuring new developments align with the East Gippsland Planning Scheme.

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the sessions aim to demystify the planning process and make it easier for those living in more remote parts of our shire to meet personally with our planners.

"Planning requirements can sometimes seem complex. These visits provide an opportunity for residents to have a face-to-face conversation with a planner, ask questions, learn how to utilise the new myLot platform and gain clarity before making decisions," Cr Ashworth said.

"Seeking advice early can help avoid delays and ensure applications are lodged correctly from the outset."

The Mallacoota session is open to all community members, including landowners, builders, business operators, and residents seeking general planning information.

The Planning Roadshow will run for a trial period to gauge community interest, alternating between Omeo and Mallacoota, with future dates to be advised.  

Residents can book a session by dropping in to see the friendly customer service staff in Mallacoota, or by emailing planning@egipps.vic.gov.au. Walk-ins are also welcome on the day, depending on availability.

For those unable to attend a Planning Roadshow session, or living in other remote parts of the shire, Council also encourages residents to try myLot – a new online planning tool.

Available anytime from anywhere, myLot uses AI technology and real-time data from planning regulations, mapping and the relevant planning scheme to provide site-specific responses and clear application requirements as a guide.

Please note that myLot provides guidance only and does not provide a final planning decision.

Visit mylotapp.com/login to explore the tool and find out more.