Landowners in Victoria will soon be able to gain approval for subdividing their properties or building a second dwelling in just two weeks, thanks to new regulations set to take effect next month. Premier Jacinta Allan is expected to announce these changes on Thursday, which aim to expedite the approval process for Victorians looking to develop their land.
The new rules will incorporate these applications into the Vic Smart approval process, reducing the timeframe from the current 60 days to just 10 business days. This change is projected to save applicants over $2,400 in fees. However, to qualify for this expedited process, applications must adhere to specific standards related to siting, privacy, and design, while respecting existing heritage and environmental overlays.
Streamlining Housing Development
The announcement comes on the heels of the Allan government revealing plans for 25 new activity centers designed to promote higher-density living. These centers will allow for buildings up to 16 stories in areas well-serviced by public transport, such as trains and trams. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to build 800,000 homes over the next decade, with a focus on developing 70% of these homes in already established areas.
“Every time a new home is approved faster, a door opens for young people to live where they want – near the things they need and the people they love,” said Premier Allan.
Since the government pledged in 2023 to meet this ambitious housing target, there has been significant attention on high-rise developments across Melbourne’s suburbs. The tallest structures are planned around major roads, railway stations, and future sites of the Suburban Rail Loop, with height limits decreasing as properties move away from these transport links.
Implications for Homeowners and Developers
Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny emphasized that the fast-tracked approval process would increase housing supply while remaining sensitive to the unique characteristics of each neighborhood. “For many people, the biggest housing opportunity is right behind them – in their own backyard,” she stated. This presents opportunities not just for landowners, but also for young families, first-time homebuyers, and those looking to downsize.
The government has already facilitated the construction of granny flats and small second homes without a planning permit, a change that has resulted in over 500 new small homes since its introduction in December 2023. This move complements the new regulations by further unlocking potential housing developments across the state.
Political Reactions and Future Considerations
Despite the positive outlook, the opposition has criticized the government’s approach, citing affordability concerns. Opposition housing spokesman Richard Riordan pointed out that property taxes remain a significant barrier to homeownership. “The single biggest barrier to buying a house is affordability,” he argued, noting that taxes, charges, and regulations constitute 45% of the cost of a new home.
“The Liberals and Nationals will help improve affordability by abolishing stamp duty on homes worth up to $1 million for first-time buyers, giving young Victorians a fair shot at home ownership,” Riordan added.
Shadow Treasurer James Newbury also expressed concerns about the impact of higher-density plans on local character, particularly within his Brighton electorate. As the government pushes forward with its housing strategy, balancing development with community values will likely remain a contentious issue.
Looking ahead, the success of these new regulations will depend on their ability to address the housing shortage while maintaining the character and livability of Victoria’s neighborhoods. As the state continues to evolve, the challenge will be to create a sustainable urban environment that meets the needs of its growing population.
