Summary of changes
The Victorian Government's Australian Grands Prix Amendment Bill proposes to:
- extend the race period to up to 21 days, with options for public and tenant access to Albert Park during this time
- address changes in Australian Grand Prix Corporation's (AGPC's) ownership of insignia and intellectual property
- increase the annual payment to Parks Victoria (PV)
- enable the AGPC to host non-motor sport events
- improve corporate governance settings.
The chance to provide feedback closed on 11 August.
Our submission
What is your feedback on the proposed amendments?
City of Port Phillip acknowledges the significance of the Australian Grand Prix within Victoria's major events calendar. However, several concerns have been identified regarding the proposed amendments to the Grand Prix Bill 2025. The consultation period for these amendments has been brief, prompting concern among the community that the process may not be sufficiently transparent, inclusive. Of particular concern is that some community members and sporting clubs may not have had sufficient opportunity to organise to put in a submission. The short timeline may create a perception that the outcome has already be predetermined, which risks undermining public confidence in the engagement process.
The proposed extension of the race period from seven days to up to 21 days presents considerable challenges for local sports clubs, particularly rowing and sailing clubs that depend on uninterrupted access to the lake and do not have capacity to "rehome" to a nearby location. These clubs are integral to community wellbeing and should not be disproportionately affected by the event's expansion. Additionally, the extended closure of Albert Park Reserve will significantly restrict access for passive recreation. For up to three weeks, residents will be unable to walk around the lake, exercise their dogs, or enjoy the park's amenities, which will negatively impact their quality of life.
There is concern regarding the lack of detail surrounding the proposed provision allowing the Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) to host non-motor sport events at the site. Without clarity on the nature and scale of these events, there is apprehension about potential competition with existing local venues and events, as well as the possible environmental and community impacts of additional large-scale activities.
Council requests that increased annual payments to Parks Victoria be directed toward addressing the environmental impacts of major events on parklands, including mitigation and ecological renewal. Albert Park is a vital green space for Port Phillip, supporting local and regional biodiversity. With only 16% canopy cover, significantly below comparable parks, improvement is urgently needed. As part of the bill amendment, Council urges the Victorian Government and AGPC to prioritise the protection and enhancement of tree canopy in Albert Park, safeguard vegetation during events, and minimise impacts on native and indigenous flora and fauna.
Do you have any feedback on how any of the proposed amendments could be operationally implemented?
City of Port Phillip recommends a partnership approach to addressing the localised impacts of the Grand Prix and any other major events. For example, sports clubs which are significantly impacted by the extended race period should be appropriately compensated and supported in identifying and accessing alternative venues where possible. This support is essential to ensure the continuity of their programs and minimise disruption to their operations.
We advocate for increased payments to Parks Victoria as a result of this amendment to be allocated to maintaining and upgrading the sporting facilities in the Reserve and restoring and improving Albert Park lake.
Furthermore, Council advocates for individual consultation to be undertaken for any proposed non-motor sport events. Events that may affect the grounds or attract large numbers of attendees should be subject to thorough engagement with affected stakeholders, including Council, community groups, venues, and sports clubs to ensure that their concerns are adequately addressed.
How would you describe your relationship to Albert Park?
City of Port Phillip is the Local Government Authority surrounding Albert Park Reserve. The Reserve is a vital community asset used extensively by our residents and local sporting clubs for a wide range of recreational, sporting, and social activities.
How frequently do you visit or travel through Albert Park?
As outlined above, local community and sporting clubs regularly utilise and travel through Albert Park Reserve. It is a central part of daily life for many residents.
Do you have anything further you would like to add about the Bill?
City of Port Phillip has met with Travis Auld, CEO of the AGPC and is committed to working collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for the community. In addition to compensation for affected sports clubs, Council is committed to working with the AGPC to look for opportunities to enhance the community benefit from the event for impacted local residents and sporting clubs.
This includes legacy opportunities such as infrastructure for sporting clubs, improved public access to Albert Park Reserve outside the GP, and a focus on increasing the benefits to local business during the event.
The Grand Prix has a significant impact on residents in the immediate vicinity of the Reserve during the race, particularly on parking, access and noise. This congestion is increasing every year as the Grand Prix attracts more visitors. Council wants to work with the AGPC on measures that may provide relief to the community.
