September 2nd, 2026More Homes Built Faster For Working People

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny has announced developments of up to four homes on a block will now get their applications assessed in just 10 business days.

Under the current system, homeowners often face delays and uncertainty due to council processes, complex paperwork and lengthy appeals – often taking more than 60 days and making it harder to build homes.

Last year, a 10-day planning permit process to build two homes on a block faster.

These new projects will use the same fast-track pathway.

Quicker decisions mean less waiting, lower costs, and more homes being built sooner.

Projects must still meet the requirements of Victoria’s Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, including standards for setbacks, landscaping, privacy and design.

If the application meets these requirements, the council can assess it through the fast-track pathway.

Proposals that do not meet these standards must go through the normal planning process.

Heritage controls, environmental overlays, and other planning protections will continue to apply.

The reform builds on the success of the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code introduced in March last year.

Since introduction, applications for townhouses and low-rise developments have increased by almost 50 per cent.

Planning permits for multi-dwelling developments in Melbourne’s middle suburbs have also increased from around 2,000 to more than 3,100.

Victoria continues to build and approve thousands of more homes than any other state, and our leading reforms are making it easier to deliver them.