Rachel asked the Minister for Planning about the proposed redevelopment of the former Kingswood golf course site in Dingley Village. The redevelopment of the former golf course has been contentious, with more than 8000 objections received from community members. Developers propose to construct 971 dwellings on the site, which is a known flood plain. Rachel asked the minister how the government will ensure that housing is future-proofed from inevitable flooding.
Thursday the 5th of February 2026,
Victorian Legislative Council
Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
My constituency question is for the Minister for Planning. My constituent is a resident of Dingley Village. He has been at the forefront of a community campaign to prevent the development of Kingswood golf course into 941 dwellings.
Despite more than 8000 written submissions from my constituents, the government approved the site rezoning. An overwhelming concern raised in these submissions is flooding. Developers have not mitigated this risk. While the need for affordable housing is clear, it must be sustainable and insurable.
My constituent asks: what will the minister do to ensure that flood risk for this site is managed effectively?
Response received, 16th of March 2026:
I thank the Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region for her question.
The development of the Former Kingswood Golf Course will create over 900 dwellings for Victorians and cater for a variety of housing needs, including affordable housing. A Development Plan for the site was approved in October 2025. The approved Development Plan implements preferred outcomes and identifies service and infrastructure requirements to facilitate development of Kingswood in a coordinated and integrated manner.
The approved Development Plan requires the subdivision design response to address flooding, stormwater and water sensitive urban design issues, including the location of proposed permanent water bodies. The associated Framework Plan allows for the retention of a number of existing trees, efficient stormwater management, and the creation of a buffer to existing adjoining neighbours.
The Development Plan provides an indicative retardation and Water Sensitive Urban Design strategy which will deliver upgrades of the existing Melbourne Water Retarding Basin and the creation of two new basins. Total storage between the three basins is estimated at approximately 80,000 – 90,000 cubic metres.
Final matters relating to stormwater management will be determined during the consideration of the subdivision permit. This includes engagement with Melbourne Water and the City of Kingston to address potential local flooding hazards and ensure the ongoing integrated stormwater management of Kingswood.
Hon Sonya Kilkenny MP
Minister for Planning
Related:
- A Sinking Feeling: Why on Earth are we Building Homes on Floodplains? – Rachel Payne
- Rossdale golf course redevelopment threatens biodiversity – Rachel Payne
- Rossdale Golf Course development proposal lands over par – Rachel Payne
