When does an amendment become part of the planning scheme?

An amendment becomes part of the planning scheme when it is approved by the Minister and notice is published in the Victoria Government Gazette. A combined permit and amendment process is available if both are required.

How can the Department of planning help with the amendment?

The department can provide advice about strategic issues relevant to the amendment and which planning provisions would best achieve the intent of the amendment. Early consultation with the department will also assist planning authorities in meeting the timeframes outlined in Ministerial Direction No. 15- the planning scheme amendment process.

How do I prepare an amendment to the scheme?

Before an amendment can be prepared it must be authorised by the Minister for Planning. An amendment to the scheme involves consultation with all the parties who may have an interest in the amendment, or may be affected by it.

How is the process of planning permission determined?

The process is determined by the Planning and Environment Act and Council has no discretion to depart from the statutory process or fees. It is overseen by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning on behalf of the Minister for Planning

Can a municipal council prepare an amendment to the VPP?

A municipal council can only prepare an amendment if authorised to do so by the Minister under section 8A of the Act. The purpose of authorisation is to identify whether a proposed amendment is consistent with State policy or interests and ensure that it makes appropriate use of the VPP.

What changes have been made to the Victoria Planning Act?

Amendment VC148 has implemented changes to the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and planning schemes. Find out if you need a permit, how to apply for one and the permit process.

How do I make changes to a planning scheme?

A planning scheme can only be changed by a formal amendment process. An amendment can make changes to all planning schemes in Victoria at once, a group of planning schemes, or only one planning scheme. All amendments must be approved by the Minister for Planning.