The Victorian State Government has announced plans to close Albert Park for up to 21 days during the Australian Grand Prix. New legislation ‘Australian Grand Prix Amendment Bill 2025’ has been drafted to allow the longer race-period closures, increase funding for park maintenance and open the door for non-motor sport events in the area. Refer to https://engage.vic.gov.au/the-australian-grands-prix-amendment-bill-2025

Residents attending a protest at Albert Park on 2 August heard speeches from the Save Albert Park group, Lake Alive and Port Phillip Deputy Mayor, Bryan Mears. Albert Park ward councillor Rod Hardy also attended the protest. Cr Beti Jay and Mayor Louise Crawford apologised for their absence.

Cr Mears said “As Councillor for the Lakeside Ward (which encompasses the APR) I was very disappointed that I did not receive warning about the proposed 21-day closure of the Albert Park Reserve. In response to the announcement, Mayor Louise Crawford, Deputy Mayor Bryan Mears, CEO Mr Chris Carroll met with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Mr Travis Auld on Thursday 31 July 2025  to discuss the concerns of sporting clubs and the broader community about the potential impact of the loss of the park for 21 days rather than 7 days.”

Cr Mears revealed that “Mr. Auld said the extended closure was necessary to address safety concerns for the public with the construction and dismantling processes”.

In addition, Mayor Louise Crawford sent a letter to Minister Steve Dimopoulos to express concerns about the impact on our community and sporting clubs who use the park.

Councillors will be meeting with AGPC representatives to work together to explore benefits for our community including legacy benefits from the event such as infrastructure or improved sporting facilities.

It seems certain Lake users, rowers and sail clubs etc will be the most affected by this proposal.

Finally, Cr Mears appealed to all attendees at the protest and concerned residents to urgently provide feedback via the Engage Victoria website:

https://engage.vic.gov.au/the-australian-grands-prix-amendment-bill-2025

Feedback closes on 11 August.

Cr Mears said “don’t leave it to a group or someone else to respond. If you don’t get involved and send in your feedback the State Government will believe residents agree with the proposal.“