Tuesday, 8 September 2026

 Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) presented a petition bearing 13 signatures:

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the urgent need for rezoning 365 Koo Wee Rup-Longwarry Road, Koo Wee Rup and granting a planning permit to enable the construction of a school with opportunity for trades-based agriculture and horticulture education and training.

Despite multiple applications, permit approval has been denied by Cardinia Shire Council due to green wedge zoning with a rural overlay. This proposed school will provide essential educational infrastructure and train the next generation in agriculture and horticulture, equipping them with skills in agricultural innovation, land management, and sustainability, to sustain and strengthen our rural industries. The demand for additional schooling options is evident as shown with Lighthouse Christian College in Cranbourne having 300 students on its waitlist with over 1,000 students turned away each year.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to rezone 365 Koo Wee Rup-Longwarry Road, Koo Wee Rup and approve a permit for the development of a school that provides opportunity for trades-based agriculture and horticulture education and training to meet the urgent needs of the community.