Kalamunda: Community Voices in Action.

In early 2025, a proposal for a McDonald's and car wash near local schools in Kalamunda sparked a wave of community action. The development was planned close to Kalamunda Primary School, Spring Road Community Kindergarten, and Kalamunda Senior High School.

Because of the size and complexity of the project, the decision went to the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel (MODAP), rather than the local council. The proposal prompted a strong, coordinated response from the Kalamunda community. Community members said the development conflicted with local planning goals. They worried it could harm community wellbeing and negatively impact children's health.

Residents quickly came together. They organised rallies, created petitions, spoke with local media, and prepared formal objections. Over 2,000 people signed petitions, and strong community networks — from Facebook groups to local newspapers — helped share information and coordinate advocacy efforts. They also spoke with local councillors, who are generally seen as connected to residents. But the referral to MODAP highlighted that local governments do not always hold decision-making authority, forcing community members to engage with complicated planning laws and systems.

Understanding the planning system proved challenging. Amanda highlighted the time and effort needed to understand planning laws. Another resident, John, said that coming together as a community group was important as “one person was not able to take on a conglomerate.”

The group chose a collaborative approach. Members focused on responding to specific aspects of the development proposal, such as planning policy, traffic, environmental issues, or health impacts. This collective effort allowed the community to support each other, share expertise, and build confidence.

While the decision was disappointing, Amanda reflected on the experience positively. The community's advocacy highlighted the need for clearer guidance and accessible planning processes, and residents pushed for more education on their rights and decision-making procedures.

Kalamunda's story proves that even when the outcome isn't what you hoped for, collaboration, persistence, and learning can give a community real influence and inspire future advocacy. Amanda's advice to other communities: “Keep on going. Keep on trying… and give it everything you can.”