Five barriers hindering country-centred planning and development in Australia

This article examines five critical barriers that impede genuine progress in Country-centred planning and development in Australia. These barriers are power and control, incompatible knowledge systems, ignorance and misunderstandings, inertia, and racism. Drawing on qualitative interviews with planning and cultural heritage professionals in Victoria, the research reveals a persistent gap between rhetorical policy and planning commitments and the effective implementation of Country-centred approaches. Using a case study of a Victorian state government’s highway development between Buangor and Ararat, the article scrutinises how existing planning frameworks and development decision-making processes can marginalise First Nations peoples and compromise the integrity of Country. Participants discuss how the removal of the sacred Djab Wurrung Birthing Trees for the Western Highway development is emblematic of systemic shortcomings. The findings emphasise the necessity of nurturing reciprocal relationships with nature – especially with culturally significant trees – as foundational to ethical and effective planning. By embracing Country-centred perspectives, planners can foster deeper connections between people and place, promote sustainability, and safeguard cultural heritage. The article argues that embedding Country-centred approaches is essential for the future of planning and development in Australia, offering significant implications for policy and planning reform, meaningful engagement with First Nations communities, and the ongoing stewardship of Country.