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Melina Bath urges Allan government to end delays and deliver the long-promised Cape to Cape Plan

Pressure is growing on the Allan government to end years of delays and release the Cape to Cape Resilience Plan, ensuring urgent coastal protection and reflecting community feedback for Inverloch.

By news@gippsland - 16th January 2026 - Back to News

Pressure is mounting on the Allan Government to end unnecessary delays and release the final Cape to Cape Resilience Plan. In state parliament The Nationals’ Melina Bath called on the Allan Labor government to end years of delay and deliver the urgent plan it promised six years ago.

Melina Bath warned residents fear the Allan Government may quietly release the Cape to Cape Plan, delaying urgent coastal protection

Coastal plan delays

Ms Bath said, "The Cape to Cape Resilience Plan should have been finalised in 2023, but Labor keeps kicking the tin down the road. Three years on from receiving a $3.3 million grant, critical mitigation works remain at a virtual standstill while the risk increases with each storm and high tide. The plan is finished and there’s no excuse for further delay - residents expect it to reflect their strong feedback to avoid retreat as an acceptable option."

"There is no excuse for Labor not to deliver refinements after failing to reflect community views on coastal erosion mitigation strategies for Inverloch. Locals are deeply frustrated at the lack of urgency as rapid coastal erosion continues to threaten infrastructure and homes," she said.

Ms Bath said many residents are cynical that the Allan government will quietly release the final Cape to Cape Resilience Plan during the busy holiday period to avoid scrutiny. "Despite knowing the dire consequences of coastal erosion in Inverloch, the Allan Government’s continued delays are a significant stress for residents. In 2022 the Allan Government listed this project as urgent - Bass Coast residents need certainty, action and a workable plan that offers better protection for the coastline, their town and homes."

Pictures from Melina Bath MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to a Climate Action Plan Review Workshop to reflect on progress, share ideas, and help shape the next five years of local climate action.
• Wellington Shire Council seeks feedback on the Domestic Animal Management Plan Review until 24 September 2025
  Wellington Shire Council's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan outlines priorities for responsible pet ownership, safety, and welfare, inviting community feedback from 28 August to 24 September 2025.
• Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
  Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment.
• Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join Biodiversity Blitz and help shape first nature plan from 1-30 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites residents to celebrate Biodiversity Month by joining the Biodiversity Blitz, recording local species, attending walk-and-talk events, and contributing ideas to shape the region's first Nature Plan.
• Darren Chester welcomes Minister Catherine King’s confirmation that the Eastern Beach Road intersection remains a priority
  The federal government has increased funding to $6.6 million for the Lakes Entrance road safety upgrade, but Federal MP Darren Chester says state government delays continue to stall the vital project.
• Mayor Rochelle Halstead honoured with MAV 10-year Service Award for her dedication to local government
  Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead has received the MAV 10-Year Service Award, recognising her decade of dedicated leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening local government and the Bass Coast community.
• Bass Coast Shire Council sets four-year strategic direction with refreshed Community Vision, Council Plan, and Annual Action Plan
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its refreshed Community Vision 2045, Council Plan 2025-2029, and Annual Action Plan, setting a community-shaped strategic direction celebrating the region’s diverse landscapes and values.
• Wellington Shire Council to update Community Local Law 2021, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and strong legal compliance
  The Safer Communities Plan includes Jack's Law to clear weapons from streets, Restart for repeat offenders, and Youthstart to support at-risk youth. Mr Cameron says Labor lacks a plan to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, leaving regions vulnerable.
• Princes Highway $2M upgrade improves safety and access for pedestrians at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna
  Nearly $2 million in joint government funding will upgrade Princes Highway at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna, improving pedestrian safety, access, and traffic flow with new medians, lighting, safety platforms, and path reconstruction.
• David Littleproud says new mapping reveals Labor's renewables damage, strengthening the call for nuclear energy
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has accused the Albanese government of removing veterans' rights to review bravery awards, warning proposed reforms undermine fairness, independence, and recognition of Australia's war heroes.
• Danny O'Brien criticises Labor for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, inconveniencing locals
  Danny O'Brien condemns the Labor government for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, restricting public access and causing significant inconvenience for Gippsland communities who rely on local court assistance.
• Peri Urban Councils Victoria reflecting on 2025 year of growth, advocacy, and stronger Peri-Urban communities
  As 2025 ends, PUCV reflects on a productive year of growth, advocacy, and connectivity improvements, thanking member councils and supporters, while preparing an ambitious agenda for 2026 and beyond.
• Gippsland New Energy Conference showcases Latrobe City as Australia's leading hub for renewable energy innovation
  Latrobe City hosted the 2025 Gippsland New Energy Conference, attracting 1,000 attendees and showcasing the region's renewable energy leadership, delivering major economic benefits and fostering industry, government, and community collaboration.