We call upon the Planning Minister to reject current plans to redevelop the Former Taxation Office on Lonsdale Street!

Plans are currently before the Victorian Planning Minister to demolish almost all of the Former Taxation Office on Lonsdale Street. The substantial destruction of this inter-war office block would be a considerable loss to the city of Melbourne and represent a terrible precedent for future developments.

Constructed in two stages in the 1920s and early 1940s, the former Taxation Office has been heritage listed for decades, recognised for its unusual architectural treatment and for being a notable indicator of the early establishment of the Commonwealth Government in Melbourne.

The current planning application (PA2403006) proposes to façade the current building and construct a 23-storey tower behind. This would result in the loss of most of the building’s historic fabric.

Facadism is a terrible heritage outcome. Neither the City of Melbourne Heritage Design Guide nor the National Trust of Victoria support facadism, recognising that a building’s significance extends far beyond its façade.

As a government-led project, the State Government should protect buildings of heritage significance, not demolish them for short-term gain. This project will ultimately set a standard, reinforcing the acceptance of facadism across Melbourne.

Beyond signing the petition, you can email the Planning Minister directly at sonya.kilkenny@parliament.vic.gov.au

Thank you for your support!