Why we're consulting

The draft Wodonga Open Space Strategy (WOSS) provides the strategic direction for the future planning, provision, design, and management of public open space over the next 15 years.

Most of the work related to the WOSS has been completed, and we're now starting the formal process to amend the Wodonga Planning Scheme (having received the Minister’s authorisation).

By incorporating the draft WOSS into the Wodonga Planning Scheme, the statutory planning team can enforce up to date, best practice standards in future development, by including appropriate conditions in granted planning permits.

The proposed changes include:

  • Developing an open space hierarchy to ensure there is sufficient infrastructure provided to each park, given its level of significance to the community.

  • Implementing a 5 per cent public open space contribution (land or cash) for all subdivisions in commercial, industrial, Rural Living and Activity Centre zones.

  • Identifying open space, walking and cycling gaps within existing and future areas within the municipality as a guideline for where infrastructure should be provided.

  • Developing guidelines for the treatment of WREN (Wodonga Retained Environment Network) land adjacent to development.

Please note: The council will review and consider all feedback at the end of this exhibition period, and will include any submissions received to the Minister for final approval. The WOSS has been drafted following consultation that took place in 2021 (see Background Information for context).

All other amendments across Victoria are available here: https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/planning-schemes/amendments/amendments-on-exhibition

Background information

The draft Wodonga Open Space Strategy (WOSS) was developed in response to increasing challenges with the provision, development and maintenance of quality public open space.

An Open Space Strategy was identified as an action of the 2016 Wodonga Growth Strategy and the 2022 statutory review of the Wodonga Planning Scheme.

The draft WOSS was developed through community and stakeholder consultation in November 2022. Gap analysis, community feedback including interactive mapping, surveys, forums and in person pop-ups were conducted to identify key themes and establish the principles of the draft WOSS.

The draft WOSS was then endorsed for public consultation as part of a planning scheme amendment on May 15, 2023. Wodonga Council has since been working with the Department of Transport (DTP) to secure Ministerial authorisation to commence public consultation of the proposed amendment.

FAQ

What is a Planning Scheme Amendment?

A Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) involves certain changes to the planning scheme map, changes to the written part of the scheme, or both. These amendments can have significant planning implications, affecting land use and development, and changing the basis for future planning decisions. For further information on PSAs and to see any currently on Exhibition, please follow this link: Planning scheme amendments

This proposed PSA purpose is to integrate the Wodonga Open Space Strategy into the Wodonga Planning Scheme to ensure best practice is being followed for the design and maintenance of Wodonga’s open spaces.

Why is a PSA required?

Amendments to the planning scheme are made to reflect the latest strategic documents and policies of Council.

What is open space?

Public Open Space is a term that encompasses a variety of open spaces that are free and accessible to the community. These spaces can feature amenities depending on their primary function and can be used for recreational and outdoor enjoyment purposes.

Council managed open space can include:

  • Parks and gardens
  • Sport and Organised Recreation areas
  • Environmental land
  • Urban spaces
  • Pathways and trails for walking and cycling

Why do we need an Open Space Strategy?

An open space strategy establishes a minimum standard for quantity, quality and amenity in open spaces. This ensures an equity in the provision of open space infrastructure and facilities to will meet the needs of current and future Wodonga residents.

What are the key changes proposed in this amendment?

The Planning Scheme Amendment seeks to introduce the recommendations of the draft Wodonga Open Space Strategy into the Wodonga Planning Scheme.

The proposed changes include:

  • Developing an open space hierarchy designed to ensure that there is sufficient infrastructure provided to each park, given its level of significance to the community.
  • Implementing a 5 per cent public open space contribution (land or cash) for all subdivisions in commercial, industrial, Rural Living, and Activity Centre zones
  • Identifying open space, walking and cycling gaps within existing and future areas within the municipality as a guideline for where infrastructure should be provided.
  • Developing guidelines for the treatment of WREN (Wodonga Retained Environment
  • Network) land adjacent to development.

What happens next?

Once the exhibition period has closed, any and all submissions supplied to the council will be reviewed by Council Officers, and if relevant, a response will be provided to the submitter. Submissions, if not resolved, will then be reviewed at an Ordinary Council Meeting

Documents on exhibition

Previous consultation report

Ways to have your say

This consultation is open from Friday, August 22 to Sunday, September 28, 2025.

Anyone who lives, works, studies or invests in Wodonga or visits the municipality and uses the facilities, is invited to review the information provided, ask questions and provide feedback during this time.

Ways to provide feedback