Safer
distances.
Victoria has no legal buffer between new fuel stations and family homes.
We’re changing that – one signature at a time.
Healthier communities.
Independent studies link chronic exposure to petrol vapours to significant health risks.
We believe families come before profit.
Who are we?
Safe Separations is a grassroots alliance of parents, health professionals and concerned residents campaigning for mandatory buffer zones between petrol stations and sensitive sites such as homes, schools and hospitals.
Why are we doing this?
Because the science is no longer in doubt: fuel stations emit benzene and other volatile compounds that are linked to childhood leukaemia, asthma and long-term lung damage. International health agencies now recommend keeping new forecourts at least 50–100 metres from places where people live, learn and heal. Yet Victoria’s planning code still allows petrol tanks to be buried a few steps from back-yard fences and school playgrounds.
We refuse to accept that risk for our children, our patients or our neighbours. Safe Separations exists to close this deadly loophole—by gathering hard evidence, giving communities a voice and pressing lawmakers for a simple safeguard: a minimum 50-metre buffer between every new petrol station and the people it could harm. Public health should never be sacrificed for convenience or profit.
What do we want?
Our goal is simple: A minimum 50-metre setback in the Victorian Planning Scheme so communities are protected before the first shovel hits the ground.
How you can help.
Sign our petition
Show your support of mandatory buffer zones between petrol stations and residential areas.
Engage council & MPs
Write to your local council’s planning department and local Member of Parliament.
Encourage others
The volume and quality of public input can influence council and ministerial decisions.