Planning in DPCD
Providing statutory and strategic guidance about planning in Victoria is one of the key roles of the Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD).
DPCD works collaboratively with local government and other key public and private stakeholders to lead State and metropolitan development, strategic and statutory planning, development regulation, and environmental assessment.
The municipal council is usually the responsible authority for issuing planning permits and administering the planning scheme and should be contacted for local and property specific planning advice. Find your local council.
The Minister for Planning is the responsible authority for some specific locations such as the Alpine Resorts Planning Scheme. Several statutory authorities also report to the Minister for Planning.
DPCD regional offices work in partnership with councils and stakeholders to deliver State Government policies and programs. They assess planning scheme amendments and provide planning advice and guidance. The regional offices are the local 'shopfront' for a wide range of the Department's services including statutory and strategic planning information and should be the first point of contact.
Ring Information Victoria on 1300 366 356 (local call cost) for assistance with basic planning information or referral to an appropriate DPCD officer.