ALLEGATIONS of more illegal works being undertaken along Frankston Beach are being investigated by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
Outcry broke out earlier this year when alleged illegal works were undertaken along the beach near Oliver’s Hill – a homeowner constructed a seawall on coastal Crown land without approval. Earlier this week, onlookers spotted more works being undertaken a short distance from the seawall.
The Times is not suggesting that the homeowner involved in the first incident is connected to the second, and understands the latest allegations are being investigated separately.
In a statement, DEECA confirmed that it is looking into the matter. “DEECA and Frankston City Council have confirmed that the recently reported works at Frankston South were not authorised, and have been on site to gather evidence.
“Regarding the neighbouring unauthorised seawall, DEECA is pursuing enforcement action.”
Frankston Council’s interim CEO Cam Arullanantham said that council is “aware of private works being undertaken along the beachfront on Crown land and continues to work closely with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on appropriate enforcement action.”
“Given the legal and privacy sensitivities, council cannot comment on individual properties or active compliance matters,” he said. “Council’s focus is on protecting public land and ensuring compliance with applicable laws.”
Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke has condemned the beach works throughout the year. In response to the latest allegation of illegal activity he said “our office has been made aware of the reports regarding unauthorised works near Oliver’s Hill. We take these matters seriously — protecting the local coastline and ensuring all works comply with environmental and planning regulations is a top priority.”
“Any illegal activity on public land is unacceptable. We’re working with the relevant authorities to ensure the site is properly assessed and that appropriate enforcement action is taken if necessary,” he said.
The Marine and Coastal Act 2018 enforces the requirement for consent before developing marine and coastal Crown land.
First published in the Frankston Times – 18 November 2025
