Planning Process

We have previously talked about the typical timeframes for getting planning approval, but I thought it would also help people to know a little of what to expect with a planning application. So here goes! Pre-Lodgement The journey begins (for us) at pre-lodgement. This is...

In response to the Covid-19 crisis the need to reform the planning systems has been acknowledged at the National Planning Ministers' Forum. The Federal, State and Territories have come together to recognise that planning systems and the development approvals pipeline must continue in Australia...

An "unprecedented time" and "can we factory reset 2020?" are just some of the many comments floating around the internet in the wake of the pandemic. We are certainly all going through a challenging time right now. However, I am also finding that with our...

The second amendment of the Frankston Metropolitan Activity Centre (FMAC) was approved last month.  This follows a two year process, including a panel hearing to consider submissions back in February 2018. The amendment known as C124 focuses on rezoning Areas 1-5 of the Frankston Metropolitan Activity...

Kingston City Council are currently undergoing a consultation process as part of developing the new housing and planning rules for the municipality. More details on the draft strategies and the drop in sessions can be found here. Following initial research and consultation, the Kingston Council...

A couple of years ago I wrote about a new fast track program that the State Government was introducing called VicSmart.  You can read more about the program here and about what I wrote here. As the program has been going for a while now I...

One of the critical factors in the success of a planning project, is choosing the right team. One of the most important people to achieve your vision is the designer.  I have worked on many different projects and seen projects struggle due to dynamics between the...

Bayside Council have just started a new structure plan project for the area adjacent to Southland Shopping Centre.  The first stage involves background research and initial input from the community about the area.  They are looking for feedback on both the current issues of the...

There has recently been a change to the requirement for a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) that will assist with many small developments. Previously the main exemptions from requiring a CHMP related to developments of two or less dwellings, or subdivision of an existing building. but now...