In February 2024, Hammond Park residents faced a proposal for three drive-through fast food outlets — KFC, McDonald's, and Starbucks — directly across from Hammond Park Primary School. With two other outlets already located nearby, the total would reach five fast food outlets in one square kilometre.
Due to the project's complexity, the decision went to the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel (MODAP) instead of the local council. Residents quickly mobilised. Families and community members organised rallies outside the primary school, engaged with the media, and spoke publicly about the need to protect children's health.
“The students are learning about health and wellbeing, and this development goes against that. Fast food outlets next to primary schools do not promote healthy eating for our children.”
Damien, Hammond Park residentInterviews with community members and parents featured in newspapers, online, and on TV and radio. A community-led petition of 82 signatures opposing the development was sent to the City of Cockburn. The City also received more than 600 submissions, with the majority opposing the proposal, and it too recommended refusal.
Despite the clear community message, MODAP approved the development in May 2024. Although the outcome was disappointing, community advocacy continued beyond the decision.
What happened
- The plan would have brought five fast food outlets within one square kilometre — three of them opposite a primary school.
- The City of Cockburn received more than 600 submissions, mostly opposed, and recommended refusal.
- MODAP approved the development in May 2024, overriding the local recommendation.
- In June 2024, a statewide petition of 511 signatures was presented to the WA Legislative Assembly, calling for planning reform.
In June 2024, a petition to the WA Legislative Assembly was presented. The petition included 511 signatures from residents statewide and highlighted the need for urgent reform to WA's land-use planning laws, and stronger powers for local governments to limit fast food developments near schools and homes.
“Having this united front as a community is really good to see.”
Damien, Hammond Park residentThe experience emphasised teamwork, persistence, and knowing how and where to focus advocacy efforts. The Hammond Park example shows that even when decisions don't go your way, informed, collaborative action can highlight issues, strengthen networks, and push for long-term change.
