Update on Alleged Illegal Works and Vegetation Removal (Frankston Sth)

Published on 23 July 2025

Frankston City Council has reaffirmed its strong stance against illegal works and environmental damage on public and private land, following further discussions of alleged breaches at the 21 July Council Meeting.

The matter relates to alleged unauthorised works along the Frankston Foreshore, including the erection of a private seawall on coastal Crown land, and significant vegetation removal. Unauthorised works on coastal land can cause significant and sometimes irreversible harm to fragile ecosystems, increase erosion risks, damage native vegetation, impact coastal processes, hinder the use of the foreshore by the public and undermine the long-term resilience of the foreshore environment.

Frankston City Council manages large sections of foreshore Crown land as a committee of management appointed by the Victorian Government. As a committee of management, Council has responsibility for day-to-day management and maintenance, including investigating breaches and issuing notices where appropriate.

Interim CEO Cam Arullanantham said Council had a clear process in place to support responsible development and ensure the protection of Frankston City’s coastal environment.

“Our message to the community is simple, there are established processes for any works near the foreshore or on public land. These exist to protect the natural landscape and ensure safety,” Mr Arullanantham said.

“Council has been working closely with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to clarify the most appropriate path forward, and we continue to have constructive conversations until a suitable outcome can be reached.”

Mr Arullanantham advised that as this is an ongoing enforcement matter, further details cannot be discussed.

Mayor Kris Bolam JP said the behaviour alleged in this matter is deeply disappointing and runs counter to the values of the Frankston City community.

“The safety, wellbeing and future of our foreshore is not negotiable. Council does not tolerate damage to our natural environment, and this kind of behaviour flies in the face of our community’s expectations,” Mayor Bolam said.

“Therefore, Council will actively work with DEECA to ensure a satisfactory outcome.”

Mayor Bolam said Council is committed to upholding the integrity of the coastline and thanked DEECA, local Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke MP, and the broader community for their strong support.

“We are grateful to have a united front and a community that values and defends our natural assets.”

State Member for Frankston, Mr Paul Edbrooke MP, said “As the Member of Parliament representing the Frankston community, I fully support taking action regarding illegal structures built on our community’s precious beach. No one is above the rules, especially when our coastline, public safety and environmental integrity are at stake.”

Residents planning works near the foreshore or on public land are encouraged to contact Council’s Planning and Compliance teams for advice on 1300 322 322. Those seeking information relating to Crown land should contact the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on 136 186 or visit www.deeca.vic.gov.au.