Council launches new Community Advocacy Toolkit for Clarkefield
Last updated on 07 August 2026
Macedon Ranges Shire Council has launched a new Community Advocacy Toolkit to help residents better understand the proposed Clarkefield Township Development and learn how they can participate in the planning process.
The toolkit brings together information about the proposal, Council's advocacy position, frequently asked questions and practical guidance for people who want to stay informed or have their say.
The toolkit forms part of Council's broader advocacy package, which also includes Council's formal advocacy position, submissions to the Minister for Planning, and supporting information outlining the key issues Council believes require further assessment before any decision is made on Amendment C164macr.
Helping the community understand the proposal
The proposed Clarkefield Township Development is currently being assessed by the Victorian Government through Amendment C164macr.
While Council is not responsible for making the final decision on the proposal, Council has reviewed the amendment and provided submissions to the Minister for Planning outlining a range of concerns and recommendations.
Council's assessment identified unresolved issues relating to infrastructure delivery, community safety, environmental impacts, governance arrangements, community liveability and the long-term delivery of services and facilities needed to support a new township.
Mayor Cassy Borthwick said Council's position reflects the need for a fair, transparent and evidence-based planning process.
"This is not opposition to new development or growth in principle. Council's position reflects the community's lack of confidence that the proposal is thoughtful, well-planned and ready.
What is Council advocating for?
Council is calling for:
- Independent review of key planning and technical documents.
- Greater certainty around infrastructure delivery and timing.
- Independent assessment of social and economic impacts.
- Clarification of long-term governance, ownership and maintenance responsibilities.
- Protection of community participation and transparent decision-making processes.
- Resolution of outstanding planning, environmental and community safety issues before any approval is considered.
Council's submission to the Minister for Planning states that the proposal should not proceed in its current form until these matters have been satisfactorily addressed and independently reviewed.
Supporting informed community participation
Because Council is not the decision-maker for Amendment C164macr, its role is to provide information, technical expertise and resources that help residents understand the proposal and participate directly in the planning process.
Whether you support the proposal, oppose it, or are still forming a view, the toolkit is designed to help you better understand the issues and participate confidently in the process.
Mayor Borthwick said growth must be planned alongside the infrastructure and services needed to support future communities.
"People should not be asked to live for years without the roads, drainage, open space, facilities and services that make a township work," Mayor Borthwick said.
Stay informed
Council will continue to provide updates as the assessment process progresses.
Visit the Clarkefield Development Proposal (C164macr) webpage to access:
- Council submissions
- The Community Advocacy Toolkit
- News and media updates
- Future opportunities to participate
Council encourages residents to read the Toolkit, review the available information and stay informed as the planning process continues.