Frequently Asked Questions

The Local Law covers a range of issues that affect daily life for Latrobe City residents, from animals to waste disposal. The Local Law is different to a State or Federal Law in that it is established by a local authority. It is designed to ensure Council responds to local issues and community needs to help make our city cleaner, safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

All Victorian councils must have a Local Law. They can last up to ten years and must be reviewed at that point, or earlier if a Council chooses to. The review is designed to ensure the Local Law continues to meet community and Council needs and is compliant with all relevant legislation.
So far, the review process has included a detailed analysis of the current Local Law, comparisons with other Councils, and engagement with internal teams across Council.

Going forward potentially yes. Though any changes cannot be applied retrospectively.

Your feedback will inform refinement to the draft Local Law before it is presented to Council to be adopted.

Once adopted by Council, the new Local Law will be formally gazetted in the Victoria Government Gazette.

This gazettal process can vary depending on the new Local Law’s complexity and administrative processes. Generally, it can be anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Once gazetted, the new Local Law will take effect immediately.

The Local Law is designed to prevent misconduct in the community. On notification a Local Law has been breached, Council will undertake an investigation. Enforcement action may include a warning, notice or fine.

What you can influence:

-How any proposed changes are considered

-Any additional changes you would like to be considered

-Improved clarity or explanations (e.g. Improved definitions)

What you can’t influence:

-Look and format of the Local Law

-Wording clarity, consistency and document order

-Requirements set by legislation

-Parameters set by Council’s strategies, plans or policies

-Application and enforcement, including penalties

-Adoption timeline (by 5 September 2026).

Your feedback will help us to refine the draft Local Law before being presented to Council for adoption.

To make a submission or enquiry, please get in touch with the Safe Communities Team:

• Online via the survey or upload a submission on this page
• Email a submission, enquiry or to request a meeting locallawreview@latrobe.vic.gov.au 
• Complete a hard copy survey (request one from us or download from this page)
• Write to us PO Box 264, Morwell VIC 3840 - AUSDOC DX 217733 Morwell
• Call us 1300 367 700