Dunsborough East
The Dunsborough Reference Group is calling on all residents, ratepayers and regular visitors to Dunsborough to participate in the public consultation process for the proposed Dunsborough East Structure Plan before submissions close on 21 October 2026. The Structure Plan will help determine how a major new area of Dunsborough develops and will influence the character, environment and infrastructure of the town for decades to come. [Dunsboroug...n_Template | PDF]
To assist community members, the Dunsborough Reference Group has prepared a public submission template outlining a number of issues that residents may wish to consider when making their own submission to the City of Busselton. The template encourages people to personalise their comments and focus on the matters most important to them. [Dunsboroug...n_Template | PDF]
The Group believes several key issues require careful consideration before the Structure Plan proceeds, including the protection of native vegetation and wildlife habitat, traffic impacts on the local road network, future school and community infrastructure requirements, local employment opportunities, and the long-term character of Dunsborough. [Dunsboroug...n_Template | PDF]
Jeff Forrest, Chairperson of the Dunsborough Reference Group, said the current consultation period provides an important opportunity for community members to help shape the future of the town.
"This proposal will influence how a significant part of Dunsborough develops over coming decades. We encourage residents, ratepayers and regular visitors alike to review the Structure Plan and make their views known."
"Whether your concerns relate to environmental protection, traffic, housing, community facilities, local employment or preserving the unique character of Dunsborough, now is the time to have your say."
The Dunsborough Reference Group supports appropriately planned growth and the provision of additional and diverse housing, but believes environmental, infrastructure and community considerations should be properly resolved before final approval is granted. [Dunsboroug...n_Template | PDF]
Community members can lodge submissions directly through the City of Busselton consultation process. The Dunsborough Reference Group's submission template is intended as a guide and can be adapted to reflect each person's individual concerns and priorities.

Some past projects -
Seymour Apartments
The deadline for comments on this 6 storey, 25 unit apartment complex at Seymour and Dunn Bay Rd is Dec. 17.
Peko-Peko Block
Brewery/coffee roaster/upmarket accomodation/gallery/shopping development approved by City Council. Construction underway.
Dugulup Centre on Dunn Bay Rd
A six storey apartment/office/retail and restaurant complex is proposed for the Puma site on Dunn Bay Rd. It will be the tallest building south of Bunbury. Info here. Deadline to comment is Dec 3.
Major growth east of the Lakes
The state planers in October decided to rezone this area urban-allowing for a massive expansion of the town.
Lot 200 Caves Road
Loss of trees along Caves Rd and endangered species habitat. Development approved by the JDAP but changes made and JDAP approved again Nov 9.
Naturalist Terrace
CoB rejuvenation of Naturaliste Terrrace. Various options: more or less parking.. more or less trees. City has surveyed the community. New plan to be implemented in stages starting after Easter 2022.
State Override
Using COVID as the excuse, the state has given itself greater powers to override local planning responsibilities. Also new State Development Assessment Panel for >$5mil projects.
New Fire Regulations
Proposed new fire break regulations will have a major impact on landowners in town and out. This has now been postponed until 2021-22.
Coastal Threat
The city is determing its policy for the next 100 years regarding sea rise and erosion, retreat or protect. The outcome will have significant impact on rates going forward. City details here.
Woolworths
A development applicatiion had been published for a Woolworths and retail and apartment complex. It will involve a new road access to Dunsborough. City details here.
Foreshore Apartments
JDAP approved 4 story apartment building facing the foreshore adjacent to Seymour Park. Decision was challenged in court but failed. Construction undereway.More info here.
Smiths Beach
Adrian Fini’s Hisperia group is leading a consortium to develop Smiths Beach with hotel, campsite, and 64 houses. The footprint is larger than that approved so new approval is being sort. More detail here.
Dunsb’h Lakes Signs
Are 8 signs in a row by same developer the best entry statement for Dunsborough? They are counter to city policy
Rezoning the foreshore
The Amendment to rezone to R60 was endorsed by Council on 27 /10/21, and recieved by the WAPC 2/12/21 The 60 day consideration period commenced on that date.
Foreshore Cafe
The first commercial business on the foreshore. Waiting for the state to rezone the land.