The Victorian Government's Townhouse and Low-Rise Code is set to take effect on 31 March 2025, bringing a streamlined approach to townhouse and low-rise apartment development approvals. If you're a developer, investor, or property owner, these changes could significantly impact your projects.

What’s Changing?

✔️ Faster Permit Approvals – Developments that meet new  deemed to comply standards can move through the approval process much quicker, reducing delays and uncertainty.
✔️ More Certainty for Developers – Clearer planning pathways mean fewer hurdles and a more predictable process.
✔️ Stronger Protections – New requirements around overshadowing, overlooking, and landscaping ensure high-quality developments that respect neighbourhood character.
✔️ Increased Development Potential – This reform presents an opportunity to optimise townhouse and low-rise apartment projects, allowing more sites to be developed efficiently.

How This Affects You

If you're considering developing a site, it's crucial to understand how the new code applies to your project. Compliance with the  deemed to comply standards will be key to securing quick approvals, while strategic planning can help maximize site potential.

How Smart Planning and Design Can Help

At Smart Planning and Design, we specialise in helping developers and investors navigate planning changes to maximise opportunities while ensuring compliance. Our expert team can assist with:

✅ Site Selection & Feasibility Assessments – Identifying the best development sites under the new framework.
✅ Pre-Approval Compliance Checks – Ensuring projects meet all necessary criteria for fast-tracked approval.
✅ Strategic Planning & Permit Applications – Offering expert guidance on complex projects that fall outside standard approval processes.
✅ Development Potential Reviews – Assessing how the new code impacts your existing or future projects.

Get Ahead of the Competition

The Townhouse and Low-Rise Code will create exciting new development opportunities, but only for those who are prepared. Now is the time to review your portfolio, assess your sites, and plan strategically for the future.

📞 Book a free consultation today and let’s discuss how we can help you make the most of these changes.

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last update on Australia townhouse and low rise code, see here.

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