Wandong and Heathcote Junction are hidden gems.

Together they have a unique identity, a strong school community, tight-knit families, open space, bushland, and a country-town character that should not be lost.

That is why I am focused on protecting Wandong's township character.

Labor has already acted to protect important areas from inappropriate growth and sprawl. Victoria's planning laws and protected boundaries mean these decisions cannot simply be waved through by council, developers, or landowners.

But legislation alone does not stop the pressure from developers, landbankers and speculators who see the next opportunity for smaller lots, more subdivision and more development.

I understand why locals are wary. Once a town's character is chipped away, it is very hard to get it back.

Recent practical action to upgrade the school, modernise the community centre and reseal roads reflects something important: towns do not have to get bigger to get better.

I also want residents on the record.

Do you support strong protections for Wandong and Heathcote Junction, so local character is respected and inappropriate small-lot subdivision is not allowed to creep in by stealth?

Your feedback will help me make the strongest possible case to council, the Planning Minister and future planning processes by showing that residents want the township character protected.

Wandong's character is worth protecting.

My job is to stand with locals to make sure that happens.