The Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria (GOCMV) has launched legal action against the Victorian government, seeking to more than double the compensation paid for land acquired for the North East Link project, according to The Age. The community is pursuing a total payout of 27.91 million, significantly higher than the 11.48 million paid by the state government.
The disputed 61,080-square-metre site in Bulleen, once home to the former Hoyts Bulleen Drive-In, was compulsorily acquired in 2021 for the $26 billion North East Link toll road project. The GOCMV had purchased the land over 30 years ago with plans to develop a community centre, including aged care facilities, education spaces, galleries, and sporting fields.
The Valuer-General assessed the land’s value at 11.45 million, and the government paid 11.48 million in compensation. According to The Age, the GOCMV argues that the land is worth 26.5 million, based on a valuation report by M3 Property. The GOCMV’s claim of 27.91 million includes compensation for the land, legal fees, and other professional costs.
A spokesperson for Major Road Projects Victoria stated that compensation is based on independent assessments by the Valuer-General.
The North East Link project, set to open in 2028, has faced significant cost overruns, with its budget ballooning from an initial to10 billion to 26 billion.
Source: Eddie, R. (2025, March 17). “Greek Orthodox community in compensation fight for land lost to North East Link.” The Age.
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