State Planning Reforms

• Introduces a deemed-to-comply pathway for single dwellings and dwelling extensions on lots less than 300 square metres.
• Applies in residential zones
• Meeting the standards means a proposal is automatically compliant and cannot be refused on those grounds.
• Meeting certain standards means that an application is a ‘VicSmart’ class of application, so there is no public notice of the application, no third party appeal rights, and Council must determine the application in 10 business days.

• Introduces a deemed‑to‑comply pathway for townhouse and low‑rise apartments(development up to 3 storeys).
• Applies in most residential zones for multi‑dwelling developments.
• Meeting the standards means a proposal is automatically compliant and cannot be refused on those grounds.
• For two-dwelling developments, meeting certain standards means that an application is a ‘VicSmart’ class of application, so there is no public notice of the application, no third party appeal rights, and Council must determine the application in 10 business days.
• For other applications assessed under this code, while there may still be public notice, if certain standards are met there are no third party appeal rights.
• Standards focus on neighbourhood character (height, setbacks, site coverage, access, trees, fences), with alternatives assessed if standards aren’t met.

• Introduces standards for developments of 4-6 stories.
• In Yarra it applies to development in the Mixed Use Zone, but can guide decision making for 4-6 storey apartment development in commercial zones.
• Replaces old “wedding‑cake” setbacks with simpler design rules. Overlooking and overshadowing standards do not apply if the side and rear setback standards have been met.
• Meeting the standards means a proposal is automatically compliant and cannot be refused on those grounds.
• While there may still be public notice, if certain standards are met there are no third party appeal rights.

• Applies to apartment and townhouse projects (2-8 storeys, 8 or more homes).
• Applications under this pathway are lodged with the Minister for Planning and the Minister is the decision maker. Council is typically given notice of an application and provided with an opportunity to make a submission.
• A development must met design principles published by the Minister for Planning relating to design quality, liveability and sustainability. Requirements relating to garden area, building height and setback and requirements for section 2 uses may be waived or varied by the Minister.
• The State Government may give notice of these applications, but there are no third party appeal rights. 
• Objections must be lodged with the State Government.

• In addition to the Great Design Fast Track, the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program considers applications for projects where Clauses 53.22 (economic development) and 53.23 (residential with affordable housing) of the Yarra Planning Scheme apply.
• Applications under this pathway are lodged with the Minister for Planning and the Minister is the decision maker. Council is typically given notice of an application and provided with an opportunity to make a submission.
• The Minister may waive or vary certain planning requirements.
• The State Government may give notice of these applications, but there are no third party appeal rights. 
• Objections must be lodged with the State Government.

• Guide and fund infrastructure for each Train and Tram Zone Activity Centre as they grow.
• Define the contribution area, collection method and priority projects.
• Funding covers both local and state infrastructure needs.
• Ensures new development is supported by essential services and community facilities.

Low Impact Planning Scheme Amendment

• Creates a low‑impact amendment pathway for lower‑risk planning changes.
• Amendments still go on public exhibition, but no panel hearing is required.
• Certain amendment types may be prescribed in regulations to streamline authorisation.

Proponent Led Amendment Process

• Creates a formal process for individuals to request (and fund) a planning scheme amendment, which Councils must approve or refuse.
• The Minister can require Councils to decide within a set timeframe (at least 6 weeks).
• Refusals must include written reasons; no review rights exist aside from possible administrative law challenges.
• The Minister can authorise other Ministers or public authorities to prepare amendments across multiple municipalities.

Panel Hearings

• Panels independently review planning proposals and amendments through submissions, hearings and reports.
• The Minister appoints panels to assess amendments and provide recommendations.
• They offer an informal forum for submitters and give expert advice; final decisions sit with the Minister or statutory bodies.
• Panels now have powers to direct expert conferences and require joint expert reports.