McDonald’s has secured approval to build a 24/7 restaurant on High Street in Northcote after the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) overturned a Darebin Council decision blocking the development.
The fast-food giant successfully appealed the council’s 2025 rejection of its proposed $2 million outlet at 323 High Street, a site vacant for more than a year following a fire.
The strip was named the world’s “coolest street” by Time Out in 2024, with opponents arguing the restaurant would not fit the area’s character.
VCAT member Michael Deidun said the tribunal could not refuse the proposal based on brand or cultural fit. “This Tribunal does not have the power to review the corporate approach of McDonalds, its work practices and ethics, the type of food it produces, its impact on human health, or whether it fits the ‘cool’ vibes of its context,” he said.
McDonald’s welcomed the ruling, stating the project would generate about 100 construction jobs and a further 100 ongoing roles.
“The restaurant represents an investment of more than $2 million and reflects McDonald’s ongoing commitment to employment-generating development across Victoria,” the company said, adding: “We look forward to joining Northcote and playing an active role in the local community when the restaurant opens later this year.”
The decision has reignited strong local opposition. More than 11,000 people signed a petition against the development, raising concerns about traffic, litter and the impact on small businesses.
Darebin councillor Emily Dimitriades, who opposed the project during the original council vote, highlighted community concerns.
“This proposal has gained significant community concerns, on issues such as safety, local character, neighbourhood amenity and the viability of small businesses,” she said.
Residents have also expressed disappointment at the outcome, with some arguing the restaurant will alter the “vibe” of High Street, while others fear it could hurt struggling local businesses.
Despite the backlash, the council said it would work with McDonald’s to ensure permit conditions are applied in a way that “minimises impacts on neighbouring businesses, residents and the broader local amenity.”
Source: ABC.
