Grimley calls for local representation on GORCPA board

MEMBER for Western Victoria Stuart Grimley is pushing for the new Great Ocean Road Authority to have local representation on its board.

The state leader for Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party will move an amendment to the Great Ocean Road and Environs Protection Bill 2019 in parliament this week.

The existing bill will see the new Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCPA) have a board of up to 12 people.

Mr Grimley’s amendment proposes half the board – six people – should be community members and business owners who live in municipalities along the Great Ocean Road.

Mr Grimley said in its current state, the bill could lead to a board that was out of touch with the area they are overseeing.

“GORCPA will be making decisions about the townships along the Great Ocean Road, for the people along the Great Ocean Road but possibly without representation of those who actually live there, which to me makes no sense. And that’s why I’ve introduced this amendment.”

In parliament, today (Thursday, May 4), the bill was amended to state that in performing its functions and exercising its powers GORCPA would be required “to engage with local communities in the development of public land management plans and local policies that are of particular relevance to that community, and to report publicly on such engagements”.

Yet Mr Grimley is still pushing for further amendments.

His amendment states the six locals must still have the requisite skills and experience to be part of the board.

Mr Grimley said those being affected by the new authority must be represented.

“This is about everyday locals being part of the authority that will oversee decision-making for the area they live, breathe and love.

“As businesses and residents are primary stakeholders in the region, they should be represented in the new board which is going to perform a central role in decision-making for the region.”