Liberals make unequivocal commitment to repeal Activity Centre Program
In a letter dated 10 November 2026 to Liveable Victoria, Shadow Minister for Planning David Southwick MP has confirmed that a Liberal–National Coalition government would repeal the Victorian Government's Activity Centre Program, including the Housing Choice and Transport Zone and Built Form Overlay introduced under Amendment VC257.
The commitment is explicit and unqualified. The letter states:
"That is why we have committed to repealing Labor's activity centre program, including the housing choice and transport zone and built form overlay introduced under Amendment VC257, and restoring locally led planning."
The Coalition has also committed to restoring greater local planning discretion, reviewing the Townhouse and Low-Rise and Mid-Rise Codes, and reinstating residents' VCAT appeal rights.
Importantly, while the Activity Centre Program would be repealed, the Codes themselves would be retained and reviewed. Questions remain about how councils would regain their previous planning powers, the extent of restored community participation and appeal rights, and what arrangements would apply to developments already in the planning system.
These are particularly relevant questions for Hampton, where residents are already confronting proposals for substantially increased building heights, including the six-storey development proposed at 6–8 Foam Street adjoining Alexander Park.
The commitments follow discussions between the Coalition and Liveable Victoria, a statewide alliance advocating for better planning and meaningful community involvement. Hampton Neighbourhood Association is listed as a supporter of Liveable Victoria.
HNA acknowledges Liveable Victoria's work in securing these written commitments and will continue seeking clarification about their practical implications for Hampton.
The full letter from David Southwick is reproduced below.
