City of Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris has voiced strong opposition to a controversial proposal to build 1,100 homes on a contaminated former sand mine and rubbish tip in Melbourne’s south-east, warning it fails to safeguard public health and environmental safety.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the proposed “Talbot Village” development by Sterling Global would house 2,500 residents on a 19-hectare Oakleigh South site riddled with toxic waste, unstable landfill pits, and deep underground “slimes” — a slurry by-product of past sand mining. Contaminants detected include methane, asbestos, arsenic, PFAS, and heavy metals.
Klisaris criticised the Victorian government for progressing the plan despite ongoing safety concerns and insufficient environmental guarantees.
“We have made it clear that the proposal is not acceptable to council and nothing has changed to address these concerns,” he said.
Despite prior rejections, the developer has bypassed council to seek state approval. Victoria’s Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny has released a draft amendment for public consultation.
Monash Council has lodged a formal objection to the state government, citing safety, environmental, and governance concerns.
Despite the backlash, Sterling Global says the land is safe for residential use following a 2020 environmental audit, and claims to have received support from some local residents and schools.
Public consultation on the draft planning amendment remains open until Wednesday, June 4.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald
