How does planning work?

Victoria's planning system controls the development of housing, industry and services to ensure that basic community needs are met and resources are used effectively and equitably. This section explains how the system achieves this, who administers it and what legislation governs it, as well as links to guides, processes, committees and other resources that keep it running smoothly.

In this section
  • Planning in DPCD
    Find out who is responsible for delivering statutory and strategic planning in DPCD and Victoria.
  • About planning schemes
    An introduction to planning schemes, their structure, related documents, and how they are applied and administered.

  • Planning services directory
    Looking for planning information or services? Visit our directory of online services provided by DPCD.
  • Development facilitation
    Assistance for private sector development projects and the Commonwealth Nation Building and Economic Stimulus Plan.
Aerial view of people on a street
Online Services
- Services Directory
- Amendments Online
- Local Provisions in Word
- Melbourne Planning Maps Online
- Permit Application Form
- Planning Certificates
- Planning Maps Online
- Planning Property Report
- Planning Schemes Online
- UDP Maps Online
- VPP Online

Grass, sand and water
Quick Links
- Bushfire Planning and Building
- Commonwealth Nation Building
- Current PDP Projects
- Documents for Inspection
- Melbourne @ 5 million
- Modernising Victoria's Planning Act
- Planning Fees
- Planning & Subdivision Fees Review