About the consultation

Please note: Consultation has now closed

The Victorian Government asked if people support trials for reducing the minimum distance between trees and power lines in low bushfire risk areas.

Our position on the proposed changes

Instead of a 10-year trial, we want the Victorian Government to make the change now. We are asking for the minimum clearance around uninsulated low-voltage powerlines in low bushfire risk areas to be reduced from 1 metre to 30 cm immediately.

This change will:

  • prevent excessive and destructive pruning
  • help protect $1 billion worth of annual tree canopy value across Victoria
  • lower costs to councils and ratepayers
  • support community resilience, liveability, biodiversity and climate adaptation.


Our submission on behalf of the City of Boroondara

On Thursday 19 February 2026, Council officers presented a formal submission (PDF 1MB) and response to the government’s proposed regulations at a public Council meeting. The submission outlines Council’s key concerns and reinforces the key points outlined above.

The Victorian Government plans to finalise the new regulations by May 2026.

To find out more about the the government's consultation, visit their website:

Victorian Government consultation > open in new window


How you participated

Consultation involved answering survey questions, making a written submission, or both on the Victorian Government's website.


  • Completing the survey

    Opened – Monday 15 December 2025

    Closed – 5 pm Monday 23 February 2026

  • Making a submission

    You could make a submission on the proposed regulations and Regulatory Impact Statement.

    We encouraged you to write a submission, asking for the Victorian Government to implement a new minimum distance of 30 cm in low bushfire risk areas immediately instead of holding a trial period.

    Opened – Monday 15 December 2025

    Closed – 5 pm Monday 23 February 2026