WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026
Local News Trades withdraw ■ Stonnington Council says that it welcomes the withdrawal of a legal challenge to the Chapel Street Special Rate Scheme, which was launched at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal by a small number of Chapel St traders. The traders said: “In late 2025 we filed an application at VCAT to challenge the validity of the Chapel Street Special Rate and Charge Scheme. Our application was made without legal advice. We are now withdrawing that challenge. “Having considered Council’s position in response to the application, and the tribunal’s observations, we have formed the view that it is not appropriate to pursue the proceeding further. “We acknowledge that the City of Stonnington administers the Scheme appropriately and in accordance with its declared purpose. “We recognise that Council’s investment in Chapel Street via its Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan is directed toward supporting the precinct’s long-term activity, and we look forward to engaging constructively with Council and the broader trader community going forward.” Stonnington Chief Executive Officer Dale Dickson welcomed the traders’ decision to withdraw the challenge, which will end VCAT proceedings. “This outcome affirms that Council has always acted lawfully and prudently when administering the Chapel Street Special Rate Scheme,” Mr Dickson said. The Council says that it is investing $4.38 million to revitalise this precinct.
Delegation visits Port Phillip ■ port Phillip Mayor Cr Alex Makin and Deputy Mayor Cr Bryan Mears welcomed a Chinese delegation from Ya’an City, Sichuan Province. The official meeting focused on cultural exchange, local governance and opportunities to strengthen understanding between communities. The discussion provided a valuable forum to share perspectives on commu-
nity identity, local priorities and the role of civic leadership in supporting liveable, inclusive places. Both groups exchanged cultural insights and reflected on the ways local character and tradition shape how communities connect and thrive. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor outlined what makes the City of Port Phillip distinctive for residents and visitors, noting
tourism as an important contributor to local activity and the broader visitor economy. Conversation also explored how local decisions are made in Australia, including the relationship between local councils and state and federal government, and how different levels of government work together to deliver services and respond to community needs.
CRIME ‘OUT OF CONTROL’, PRAHRAN MP TELLS PARLT. POLICE PRESENCE NEDDED ■ Prahran MLA Rachel Westaway says local crime “is out of control”. “ My constituency question is to the Minister for Police [Anthony Carbines] “When will the minister finally recognise that crime is out of control and commit the full-time police resources needed to keep Chapel St and our surrounding areas safe?” Ms Westaway said. “In recent weeks Chapel St and surrounding areas have been rocked by escalating attacks on local venues, leaving traders, residents, staff and patrons fearing for their safety and their livelihoods. “While Victoria Police undertook a three-week police blitz, a short-term operation is absolutely no substitute for the sustained, visible police presence this precinct desperately needs. “Chapel St is one of Melbourne’s most important hospitality, retail and entertainment destinations, and it absolutely should be safe. “It should be vibrant and welcoming, not abandoned to face escalating crime, with only temporary police measures,” Ms Westaway said.
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Petition for St Kilda PCYC ■ A petition regarding the St Kilda PCYC has been tabled in State Parliament. Prahran MLA Rachel Westaway lodged the petition on behalf of its 110 signatories. “This petition of residents in Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly that for 77 years, the St Kilda Police Citizens Youth Club has been a vital part of our community, providing programs and facilities that support young people, families, and local groups,” the petition said. “Now, the PCYC faces the devastating prospect of closure at its Inkerman St site because the State and Federal Governments have failed to provide secure, consistent funding. “The PCYC delivers critical early-intervention programs such as the Mobile Activity Centre and Young Leaders Camps, which mentor disadvantaged and at-risk youth. “The facility also serves the broader community, providing one of only two indoor basketball courts in the area, supporting St Kilda Primary School teams, seniors’ programs and local groups. “Losing it would be an enormous blow to our community.” The petition calls on the Government to act and deliver funding to the St Kilda Police Citizens Youth Club so that this vital service remains a part of St Kilda’s future.
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