The Andrews Labor Government has released a 50-year community vision for the iconic Yarra River, Birrarung –  the first of its kind for an urban waterway in Australia.

Minister for Water Lisa Neville, Minister for Planning Richard Wynne and Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio joined Member for Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines at the new Finns Reserve recreational facility today to launch YarraCommunity Vision.

The Vision outlines the long-term aspirations for the river corridor, and the values set out in it will be brought to life through the Yarra Strategic Plan being led by Melbourne Water.

It is a collaboration with the community, the Wurundjeri and partner organisations to provide strategic direction for land use for the Yarra, and is the result of more 12 months of consultation with Traditional Owners and the wider community – with more than 2,000 people outlining what was important to them about the Yarra.

Earlier this year, a community assembly of 24 passionate Victorians drawn from all parts of the Yarra’s 242 kilometre length also contributed to drafting the Vision. Its development is one of 30 actions in the Labor Government’s Yarra River Action Plan, released in 2017, to protect the Yarra River and its parklands.

The Vision is also a requirement of the landmark Yarra River Protection (Willip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017, which exemplifies modern river and land use management, and mandates structural inclusion for the Wurundjeri Traditional Owners.

The Wurundjeri Water Policy was also released today. We support the greater involvement of Aboriginal communities and Traditional Owners in the management of our water resources.

The Labor Government introduced legislation that requires all water management to have regard for Aboriginal uses and values of waterways or traditional ecological knowledge in managing these natural assets.

Quote attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville

“The Yarra River Action Plan is about taking meaningful steps so Birrarung – our iconic Yarra River – can continue to thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne

“The Community Vision for the river highlights the cultural, recreational, environmental and economic value of the Yarra and we will use it to guide our priorities for this important landmark.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio

“The Yarra River is a vital part of our state’s environment – we’re giving it the care it deserves.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines

“We all have a responsibility to secure a healthy future for the Yarra. Our community-led approach encourages everyone to be an advocate for Melbourne’s most significant waterway.”