Birregurra Structure Plan

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Background

Colac Otway Shire Council has commissioned a review of the Birregurra Structure Plan 2013.  The 2013 Plan provides the current development framework for the township of Birregurra and its surrounding areas and included the outcomes of the 2012 Neighbourhood Character Study.  It underpins the planning controls for Birregurra in the Colac Otway Planning Scheme.

The primary objectives of the review were to:

  • Deliver an updated analysis of land supply for future in-fill housing within the current town boundaries.
  • Identify where future growth should occur if further land is required to meet anticipated demand, ensuring housing affordability.
  • Review and provide recommendations on the effectiveness of planning controls over subdivision and development.
  • Provide an up-to-date structure plan for Birregurra that reflects contemporary community needs.

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Study Area

The Study Area for the project is focused on the Birregurra township as shown in Figure 1 (featured right).

Figure 1 shows the extent of the current township boundary of Birregurra.

The Study Area will also include adjacent rural land surrounding Birregurra.

It will include all public land including road reserves, crown land, creeks and recreational areas within and surrounding the town.

Draft Birregurra Structure Plan

The draft Plan sets out a long-term vision for Birregurra’s growth and development and responds to updated policy, demographic trends, infrastructure changes, and community priorities.  The document intends to guide the use and development of land in Birregurra for the next 10-15 years.

Key features include:

  • Housing opportunities that promote housing diversity and complement the village character and heritage of Birregurra
  • Active transport projects (pedestrian & cycling) linking open space and community facilities
  • Improving the climate resilience of Birregurra township
  • Support and advocacy for community projects, including upgrade of the Birregurra Recreation Reserve clubrooms

You can view of copy of the Draft Birregurra Structure Plan here(PDF, 7MB).

Several background reports were prepared as part of the Review project. These reports outline the process and methodology undertaken to prepare the Draft Plan, including community and stakeholder input. You can view a copy of each report here.

  1. Issues & Opportunities Summary Report(PDF, 2MB)

  2. Review of Neighbourhood Planning Provisions(PDF, 3MB)

  3. Issues & Opportunities Report (Full Report)(PDF, 6MB)

  4. Birregurra Structure Plan Review: Consultation Report(PDF, 856KB)

  5. Bushfire Planning Assessment Birregurra(PDF, 6MB)

We encourage all residents, landowners, businesses and community members to review the draft Plan and make a submission.

Visit the Draft Birregurra Structure Plan consultation page to provide your feedback on the plan. Submissions close at 5pm on Monday 11 August 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Structure Plan?

A Structure Plan is a strategic planning document that outlines Council’s preferred approach to future growth, including the land needed to meet housing needs over the next 10-15 years. It forms the basis for statutory planning controls in the Colac Otway Planning Scheme to guide decisions Council will make on planning applications.

 

Why is the Structure Plan being reviewed?

The current Plan is over 10 years old. The review addresses recent growth trends, infrastructure changes, shifting demographics, updated flood mapping, and planning policy reforms. It ensures the Plan reflects today’s needs and supports Birregurra’s future. 

Who prepared the draft Structure Plan?

Colac Otway Shire Council commissioned Conway Planning to prepare the draft Structure Plan with input from the community and technical experts. 

What does the draft Structure Plan propose?

The draft Plan includes objectives and strategies for:

  • Population and housing
  • Commerce and industry
  • Environment and landscape
  • Aboriginal cultural values
  • Access and movement
  • Open space, recreation and community facilities
  • Utilities

Implementation of the draft Structure Plan will require a range of actions, including the following:

  • Housing opportunities that promote housing diversity and complement the village character and heritage of Birregurra
  • Active transport projects (pedestrian & cycling) linking open space and community facilities
  • Improving the climate resilience of Birregurra township
  • Support and advocacy for community projects, including upgrade of the Birregurra Recreation Reserve clubrooms

A planning scheme amendment will also be required to introduce the new policy into legislation.

What should I include in my submission?

You may:

  • Highlight parts of the draft you support
  • Raise concerns or suggest improvements
  • Share insights or experiences relevant to the town’s future

Submissions can be brief or detailed. 

 

What happens after the exhibition period?

After submissions close, Council will:

  • Review all feedback
  • Revise the draft Structure Plan where appropriate
  • Consider adoption of the final Structure Plan

If adopted, a planning scheme amendment will follow to incorporate the Structure Plan into the Colac Otway Planning Scheme.  This amendment process includes:

  • A second public exhibition phase
  • Consideration of new submissions
  • Referral to an independent planning panel if required
  • Final approval by Council and the Minister for Planning. 

Will my submission be made public?

Submissions may be included in Council reports, but personal information will be removed in accordance with privacy laws. You can request confidentiality.

 

Related Information

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