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Important update about rates notices
Published on 30 September 2026
The state government is introducing changes to how some housing development applications are approved to help make the process faster.
It is a major overhaul of the law and is focused on increasing the number of houses across the state.
In Hobsons Bay, the Victorian Government has set a target of 22,500 more homes being built by 2051.
New standards will apply for certain townhouses and for apartment development up to six storeys.
Where all applicable standards are met, Council must issue a planning permit and has limited ability to consider broader matters such as neighbourhood character, traffic impacts or dwelling density.
From October 2026, up to four homes on a lot may be approved within 10 business days as part of the VicSmart process. These developments will no longer be advertised to neighbours, and nearby residents will no longer be able to appeal the development through VCAT.
Certain minimum standards for new residential developments have changed, including reduced parking requirements, and removed requirements for frosting/screening upper-level bedroom windows.
Heritage, flooding, environmental and other site-specific planning controls will continue to apply where relevant.
The Victorian Government is also expanding the Development Facilitation Program. This means more types of major housing and significant economic development will be assessed and approved by the state government instead of being decided by Council.
These changes will progressively introduce new assessment streams, application requirements and changes to notice and appeal rights through to 29 October 2027.
Find out more about the major planning reforms in Victoria.