Planning Scheme Amendment Process

Occasionally, changes are made to the Planning Scheme, and these changes occur through the process of a Planning Scheme Amendment.  

An example of a change through an Amendment could include changing a zone or overlay to guide the development and use of the land.

‍

Who can prepare or amend the Planning Scheme?

A Planning Scheme Amendment can be prepared by any planning authority specified in the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic). This may include:

• A local Council
• The Minister for Planning
• A minister or government agency that has been authorised by the Minister for Planning.

Individuals and other parties can request an amendment to the planning scheme. To be considered, the request must:

• Be formally supplied in writing
• Be consistent with the strategic vision for the municipality
• Demonstrate merit and adequate strategic justification as to why the amendment should be prepared.

If you would like to request an amendment, contact us for more information.

You can also find more information about planning scheme amendments on the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) website.

‍

Authorisation

Before an amendment can be prepared it must be authorised by the Minister for Planning.  

The purpose of authorisation is to identify whether a proposed amendment is consistent with state policy and interests, and to ensure it makes appropriate use of the Victorian Planning Provisions.

‍

Exhibition

After the amendment has been authorised, Council will undertake consultation with relevant parties, including the department's regional office.

For assistance on preparing a submission to a planning scheme amendment, visit the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) website. ‍

‍

Panel Hearing

An independent panel may be appointed by the Minister for Planning to consider the submissions and the amendment. The Panel:

• Reviews the submissions
• Conducts a public hearing
• Considers the amendment
• Prepares an independent report with recommendations about the amendment for Council.

After the panel hearing, the Panel has 6 to 8 weeks to provide a report to Council with its recommendations on the amendment. Council has no obligation to adopt the panel's recommendations. ‍

‍

Approval

After a planning authority has adopted an amendment, the amendment is submitted to the Minister for Planning for consideration and decision. ‍

‍

Amendment Fees

Visit our Strategic Planning Fees page.‍

‍

Current and Approved Amendments

Visit our Planning Scheme Amendments page.