17 June 2026 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Local communities across Victoria are reeling from the unwanted expansion of multinational fast-food chains in their communities. We plan to protect them.
The Planning Amendment (Restricting New Fast-Food Developments) Bill 2026 will give local councils the power to refuse new fast-food outlets where communities do not want them. Councils will be able to consider factors such as community health, outlet saturation, proximity to schools, and the character of local neighbourhoods.
Legalise Cannabis MP David Ettershank said the current planning system fails communities because it allows corporate interests to override local decision-making.
“Councils and citizens should not be denied a say in fast food developments in their communities. Large corporations shouldn’t be able to simply muscle their way in,” Mr Ettershank said.
The legislation follows a series of high-profile cases, including in Northcote, where a council decision to reject a 24-hour McDonald’s was overturned in VCAT despite overwhelming community opposition. Similar disputes are unfolding across Victoria, including Castlemaine and Phillip Island highlighting growing frustration that local voices are being sidelined.
Mr Ettershank said the Bill responds directly to these concerns by clarifying and strengthening the role of local government in that process.
“When hundreds, even thousands, of people object to a proposal, whether it’s a McDonald’s or any other large fast-food chain, that must be taken seriously and reflected in our planning laws. This Bill is a practical step toward restoring democratic control and ensuring planning decisions reflect the wishes of the community”, he said.
“Government members have said that this legislation can’t be done in this Parliament. Well here it is, ready to take away, and we challenge the Government to show some courage and make it law.”
The Proposed Bill would:
- Give councils clear legal authority to refuse fast-food developments
- Ensure health and wellbeing are central to planning decisions
- Enable consideration of outlet density, proximity to schools, and local health data
- Strengthen local autonomy
- Prevent council decisions simply being overridden at VCAT
Importantly, a 2024 Victorian parliamentary inquiry recommended stronger planning rules to curb the spread of fast-food outlets in growth areas. The inquiry also recommended giving local councils greater power to refuse permits on health grounds.
“Beyond the health impacts, communities should be able to stand up for the small businesses and local character they value,” Mr Ettershank said.
“This is about giving communities a real say. When people stand up for their neighbourhoods, they deserve to be heard.”
David and stakeholders are available for comment.
