Subdivision to become quicker
A new system from the Victorian government is set to make subdivision, and a host of other changes to property, easier.
Under the government’s new system ‘VicSmart’, designed to reduce red tape, one in six planning permits should be spared lengthy delays, with the final steps of consultation for the project now underway.
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Under the new system, 8,500 planning permits will be processed within 10 days. Planning minister Matthew Guy said this new codified model of approval was ‘revolutionary’ and will help with councils across the board.
"Cutting planning red tape is a huge win for confidence and certainty in the Victorian planning system and reinforces to councils, investors and communities that the Coalition government is getting on with the job of simplifying our planning system,” Mr Guy said.
"VicSmart is a new, innovative way of managing planning approvals. Councils will set straightforward rules and if an applicant meets those rules, then a permit will be issued within 10 working days," he said.
"It is a simple process that satisfies both the local council's want for policy certainty and an applicant's desire for a fast outcome. Years of red tape additions to the state's planning system has done little to deliver any real outcomes. VicSmart is a real game changer.”
The new system will cover realigning subdivided common land boundaries, construction or extension of front fences, sign displays, car space changes and the attachment of new solar facilities in heritage areas.
The planning system was formally gazetted on 20 May 2013 after passing parliament in late 2012.