In a recent VCAT matter, Kostandinov Investment Pty Ltd v Merri-bek CC [2025] VCAT 494, the Tribunal was asked to determine whether it was appropriate for a permit holder to seek an amendment to endorsed plans that would effectively reduce the BESS Score previously approved by Council.
Ashley Thompson recently presented to the ISV, CSV, and DMN seminars on the new Townhouse & Low Rise Code (Cl55 provision).
Amendment GC252 implements the new Housing Choice and Transport Zone (HCTZ) and new Built Form Overlay (BFO)
In a political environment that is focussed on addressing the housing crisis and increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning process, permit applicants are wondering if more can be done to clarify and streamline the ‘public notification’ period required for planning permit applications.
In March the new Clause 55 provisions were announced and gazetted into the Scheme. The new Clause 55 (A.K.A. Townhouse and Low-Rise Code) rewrites the assessment criteria for planning permit applications associated with two or more dwellings on a lot.
The State Government has introduced new zone and overlay tools through Planning Scheme Amendment VC257, 25 February 2025, affecting all planning schemes in Victoria
On 24 February 2025 the Premier of Victoria and Minister for Planning announced final Council capacity targets for new housing
In November 2024 the Planning Minister announced updates to the Small Lot Housing Code by introducing a new ‘Type C’ set of standards for homes on sites less than 100 square metres
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal considered whether a permit applicant’s appeal of a permit condition under Section 80 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 could lead to a new permit trigger being approved.
The New ‘Deemed to Comply’ Standards
