About PLAC
PLAC is an advisory committee to Melbourne Water. It plays an important role in making recommendations to Melbourne Water on a range of matters relevant to ratepayers and residents living on the Quiet Lakes and Tidal Waterways at Patterson Lakes, in Melbourne, Victoria.
The advisory committee includes up to 11 local ratepayers, residents or community group representatives who volunteer their time. Members are appointed by a selection panel, made up of two Melbourne Water representatives and two independent representatives. Committee members are generally appointed for four-year terms (with half of the positions advertised every two years).
The committee is divided into two subcommittees - Quiet Lakes and Tidal Waterways. Each committee considers its business separately, but comes together twice a year to discuss business in common.
The subcommittees and full committee meet six times a year to make recommendations on precept rate charges, maintenance, works and priorities, and other key matters or issues. While members do make efforts to find out and take into account community needs and concerns, no formal community consultation is expected as this remains the responsibility of Melbourne Water.
Committee meetings are led by an independent chair engaged by Melbourne Water, and meeting minutes are available on this website.
Click here to view the committee's full Terms of Reference (PDF, 63kb).
Committee vacancies are advertised in the local newspaper, on this website and via direct mail to ratepayers and residents.
About Melbourne Water
Melbourne Water is owned by the Victorian Government. It manages rivers and creeks and major drainage systems throughout the Port Phillip and Westernport region and is the waterway authority responsible for managing the Patterson Lakes aquatic systems. The South East Regional Delivery Team in Melbourne Water's Waterways group manages the system at Patterson Lakes.
In addition to the normal drainage rate that all Melbourne home owners pay, Tidal Waterways and Quiet Lakes property owners in Patterson Lakes pay a special service charge for works and services that are specific to their waterside properties. This is known as the precept rate, and is approved by the Victorian Government's Essential Services Commission which independently regulates the prices and service standards of businesses supplying water, sewerage and related services.
Click here for more information about Melbourne Water's services in Patterson Lakes or please get in touch with us via the Contact Us page.
