McDonald’s Australia launched proceedings at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal after Darebin council rejected a planning application for a 24-hour McDonald’s convenience restaurant on High Street in Northcote. The challenge moves the conflict from local planning meetings into a formal adjudication setting. For employees and jobseekers in the area, the tribunal outcome will directly affect whether the roles and hours McDonald’s has promised become reality. The planning fight also puts a spotlight on the workplace implications of a 24-hour fast food outlet. McDonald’s noted community support as part of its case, while the council’s rejection indicates there was enough concern among decision-makers to deny approval.

Source: The Guardian January 12, 2026 09:33 UTC