Acting Planning Minister, Richard Wynne, said the Cutting Red Tape in Planning exemptions are part of the Brumby Government’s commitment to cut planning red tape.

“The Brumby Government is taking action to improve Victoria’s planning system and ensure it is efficient and effective, saving residents and council’s time and money,” Mr Wynne said.

“It is estimated that up to 2,000 planning applications will no longer be required as a result of these changes.

“I encourage people to contact their local council to confirm what permits are required before they start any work so they fully understand the changes.”

The implementation of Cutting Red Tape in Planning coincides with a reduction in permit application numbers from 54,788 to 49,587 over four years despite strong activity in the building industry.

“Notably in 2006-7, applications for residential alteration and additions, specifically targeted by the cutting red tape initiatives, dropped by over ten per cent,” he said.

“However, in the same period there has been ongoing increase in the number of building permits now at slightly over 100,000 reflecting Victoria’s growth.

“These figures strongly show the Brumby Government’s Cutting Red Tape in Planning initiative is effective,” Mr Wynne said.

The new exemptions will mean that:

•    Rain water tanks in rural areas no longer need a planning permit regardless of size;
•    Rain water tanks in industrial areas on longer need a planning permit provided they meet site and height requirements;
•    Domestic sheds under 50 m2 no longer need a planning permit in farming zones; and
•    Minor domestic building work such as a pergola, deck, swimming pool no longer need planning permit in most areas that are not in a flood prone, heritage or environmentally significant area.

Cutting Red Tape in Planning is the Brumby Government’s plan from which key improvement in planning have originated including Planning Applications Online, Making Local Policy Stronger and the review of the Planning and Environment Act.