Concerns over the future of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Presentation of Our Lord in Coburg have escalated, prompting Liberal MP Evan Mulholland to demand government action after Merri-bek City Council’s draft redevelopment plan for central Coburg revealed a proposed eight-storey tower directly opposite the church.
Community leaders warn the development could severely undermine access, parking, and the church’s vital role as a cultural and welfare hub, sparking widespread public outcry across the Greek-Australian community.
Political pressure hits state Parliament
Evan Mulholland, MP for Northern Metropolitan Region, raised the issue in the state Parliament, asking whether the planning minister would mandate direct consultation with the parish. In his parliamentary question, he noted that the plan’s scale, particularly the eight-storey building, threatens “essential community services” by risking the loss of critical parking and undermining traffic capacity.
Community mobilises — petition, public concern, calls for safeguards
Local parishioners and supporters have launched a petition titled “Help STOP Merri-bek from closing our Church,” calling on the council to abandon the high-rise tower plan, guarantee no net loss of parking, conduct independent impact assessments, and commit to meaningful consultation before any construction proceeds. The petition has already gathered thousands of signatures.
Residents describe the church precinct not just as a place of worship, but as an active community centre providing a range of services — social welfare outreach, support programs, cultural and religious events, and a vital sense of community identity. They warn that the proposed redevelopment could dismantle this “heart of the community.”
Council insists the plan is part of a broader vision — “but details remain under review”
The Council says its draft concept for central Coburg aims to deliver a revitalised area with mixed housing, retail, green spaces, and improved public amenities. It emphasises the need to balance growth with preserving the character and history of Coburg.
Council representatives say community feedback — including from the Greek-Australian community — has been “extensive” and “detailed,” and changes to the draft plan are likely in response. A revised plan with next steps is expected early next year.
What’s at stake — culture, access, and community services
Critics argue that if the Council proceeds without meaningful adjustments, the result could be:
- Loss of on-site and street parking impacting elderly parishioners, families, and welfare service users.
- Reduced accessibility and safety, especially during peak church usage such as festivals and welfare programs.
- Disruption to a church that serves not only as a house of worship, but also as a community hub delivering social support, outreach, cultural continuity, and a sense of belonging for Greek-Australian residents.
Supporters argue the redevelopment, under the guise of “revitalisation,” risks displacement rather than genuine community renewal — especially for Coburg’s multicultural, multi-generational populatio
