Building approvals fast-tracked in planning overhaul

Wait times for planning permits will be slashed by up to six months and simple home projects will be exempt under a major system overhaul.

A planning system overhaul will make it easier to get building permits.

Major reform of Victoria’s planning system aimed at speeding up building approvals and cutting red tape will be announced on Friday.

New legislation to provide faster assessment of major developments – cutting up to six months off planning permit applications – will form part of the reforms.

Changes to residential design guidelines will make it simpler and quicker for Victorians to build new homes.

And, in a win for homeowners and small business operators, planning permit requirements for simple projects such as home extensions, sheds, home studios and verandas will be removed.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the changes to Victoria’s planning system, to be introduced in state parliament next week, had been informed by consultation with councils, peak industry bodies and agencies.

“We’re ensuring our critical projects can be built faster while giving councils tools to create better neighbourhoods to help Victorians thrive with upgraded parks and community facilities and accessible retail and transport hubs,’’ he said.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne says the overhaul will make it simpler and quicker for Victorians to build new homes. Picture: Luis Ascui

“These sensible reforms will make life easier for homeowners, doing away with out-of-date and time-consuming processes for minor projects that frustrate people wanting to build a shed or extend a veranda.”

The reform is expected to fast track community infrastructure such as ambulance and fire services, childcare and medical centres, social housing, tram stops, parks, libraries and sporting facilities.

Property Council of Australia Victorian director Danni Hunter said it was “the decision and the legislation that is needed to take planning reform forward.’’

“This is a really great outcome … it will make the planning system much more efficient and address a lot of the blockages that are currently there in play,’’ she said.

“This reform is quite significant, it is them pressing go, is very welcomed by the industry and something we’ve asked for a number of years.’’

Treasurer Tim Pallas predicted the changes would create jobs, bolster construction and deliver $7 billion in benefits and 27,500 jobs over the next 10 years.

“The reforms will deliver cost and time savings for the development sector, ensuring we can continue delivering the infrastructure and housing projects crucial to driving our economy,’’ he said.

“We’re cutting red tape, making it easier for businesses to invest and thrive in Victoria while ensuring we continue delivering the projects we need for a growing population.”

Originally published as Building approvals fast-tracked in planning overhaul