Port Phillip Matters

7 December 2025

Seasons Greetings from the Residents of Port Phillip

As we close the year 2025, we congratulate Alex Makin and Bryan Mears on their elections as Mayor and Vice-mayor, respectively, and we reflect on the progress that has been made in addressing some key residents’ concerns about community safety in Port Phillip – and we request your support of an important encampment related motion on 10 December. In addition, we explore supporting businesses and residents with better parking management and more alfresco dining spaces during the upcoming Grand Prix, and we also look in depth at the repercussions of the State government of Victoria’s haste to implement a Planning Amendment Bill.

This is the time of year to be thankful for the many blessings we enjoy with family and friends in our beautiful community, and we at the Residents of Port Phillip wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Community Safety – Come to Speak at Council Meeting

By Campbell (Middle Park resident) | December 5, 2025

On Wednesday 10^th December Councillors will vote on changing local laws to improve community safety. The outcome of the vote is important for residents who have been the victims of verbal abuse, physical assaults and feeling unsafe when encountering rough sleepers on our streets. We ask you to attend the Council Meeting at 6:30 pm on Wednesday 10^th December to speak in support of the Item 10.2. Register to speak no later than 12 noon on Wednesday at https://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/about-the-council/council-meetings/participate-at-council-meetings/

Congratulations to Mayor Makin and Deputy Mayor Mears

By Claire (St Kilda resident) | December 4, 2025

A huge round of applause as Councillor Alex Makin steps into the role of Mayor and Councillor Bryan Mears is re-elected as Deputy Mayor. This leadership combination brings fresh blood, new ideas, and — most importantly — a genuine commitment to serving the community free from political alignment. Read on to learn why Residents of Port Phillip is excited about the chance to work closely with this dynamic duo in the new year!

Cr Hardy Receives Support for Grand Prix Enhancements in Middle Park

By Campbell (Middle Park resident) | December 3, 2025

Recently Council passed a motion put by Cr Rod Hardy to investigate an initiative to help business owners provide services for Grand Prix patrons by closing Armstrong Street in the Middle Park Village from Richardson St to Canterbury Road over the four days of the Grand Prix next year. This initiative will not only improve parking conditions for residents during the event but will also enhance the festive occasion for local businesses and their patrons. Read on to learn more.

No Need to Rush the New State Government Planning Laws: Housing Supply is Going Nowhere

By Rod (St Kilda Resident) | December 3, 2025

The State Government is currently with haste pushing through the Planning Amendment (Better Decisions Made Faster) Bill 2025. The current drive to pass the State planning amendments is not the answer to Victoria’s current planning and housing woes. The new legislation fails to adequately consult both the general public and as importantly, the councils who effectively administer the myriad of planning rules. Moreover, attempting to increase housing supply through enactment of this legislation will not substantially change the dire housing situation Victoria now finds itself in. Read on to learn why and what you can do to have your say.

Port Phillip Matters

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