Understanding the role of town planners is essential for anyone planning a development, whether it’s a home extension, multi-unit build, or a large commercial project. In Victoria, navigating the local planning system requires both compliance and strategy, especially when dealing with a council town planner. This is where a town planning consultant becomes invaluable.
In this blog, we’ll explore the role of town planners, the services consultants provide, and why professional guidance can make your project.
What Is the Role of Town Planners?
Town planners are the professionals responsible for land use, urban growth, and sustainable development. Town planners implement planning policies to make sure developments meet zoning and environmental protection laws as well as achieve community objectives.
In Victoria, there are two types of town planners:
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Council Town Planners: Employed by local governments to assess applications and enforce planning schemes.
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Town Planning Consultants: Private professionals who assist developers and property owners in preparing and submitting compliant planning applications.
Understanding the role of town planners, especially the distinction between council and consultant planners, can significantly improve the success rate of any planning permit application.
What Is Town Planning Important?
Town planning ensures that land is developed in a manner that balances the private interests of landowners with respect to the needs of the wider community. It supports liveable communities and protects the environment.
Importance of Town Planning for a Community
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Liveability: Provides safe, accessible and connected communities.
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Environmental Protection: Prevents overdevelopment and encourages green spaces.
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Sustainable Growth: Allows for the management of urban sprawl and population growth in a responsible manner.
- Heritage & Culture: Protects historical and culturally significant sites.
Importance of Town Planning for the Building and Construction Industry
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Regulatory Clarity: Town planning frameworks guide the industry in what can and cannot be built.
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Project Efficiency: With the right planning support, developers can minimise risk and delays
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Market Stability: Consistent rules support investor confidence.
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Compliance Assurance: Ensures developments meet required building standards and safety codes.
Whether it's a small residential extension or a large building construction project, effective planning is essential to success.
What Services Does a Town Planning Consultant Provide?
A town planning consultant works on behalf of property owners, developers, and investors to simplify and assist with the permit process and ensure regulatory compliance.
Key Services Include:
- Site Feasibility Assessments: Identifying opportunities and restrictions that can cause delays in the project.
- Planning Strategy & Pre-Application Advice: Recommending approaches that align with the local planning scheme.
- Documentation & Report Preparation: Producing planning reports, development plans, and statements of compliance.
- Planning Permit Application Lodgement: Submitting applications on behalf of clients and managing timelines.
- Council Liaison: Acting as the communication bridge with council town planners.
- Objection Management: Responding to submissions or objections from neighbours or referral authorities.
- Post-Approval Assistance: Advice and assist on permit conditions, amendments, or additional approvals required.
These services are particularly important for complex developments such as land subdivision in Victoria, multi-unit sites, and mixed-use projects.
What Is the Process of Town Planning?
Understanding the town planning process in Victoria helps property owners anticipate what’s ahead and make informed decisions.
- Site Analysis: Zoning, overlays, easements, and environmental constraints are identified.
- Concept Design: Development ideas are tested for compliance with planning controls.
- Pre-Application Consultation: Optional discussions with the council to flag potential issues early.
- Application Preparation & Submission: Includes all documents, architectural plans, and planning reports and often many other related documents.
- Public Notification: Some applications are advertised to neighbouring properties for comment.
- Council Assessment: The council town planner reviews the application, may request changes, and consults with internal/external authorities, this is often referred as a RFI (Request for Further Information).
- Decision & Permit Issuance: Approval (often with conditions), refusal, or referral to VCAT for appeals.
This structured process ensures that all relevant parties are consulted, and developments proceed in line with community expectations and statutory requirements.
How a Town Planning Consultant Helps You Work with Council Town Planners
A number of landowners believe that a council officer will assist with the development process of their proposal. In reality, this is only partially true. Council town planners are responsible for assessing applications, but they cannot act as advocates and will not provide much further advice on how to improve the proposal.
This is where a town planning consultant comes in:
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Advocacy: Consultants work for you, so your best interests are paramount.
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Translation: They translate planning jargon into something meaningful to you.
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Compliance: Help shape your application to meet every relevant planning scheme clause.
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Strategy: If your proposal is at risk of refusal, consultants help revise or negotiate solutions.
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Efficiency: Reduce delays, avoid unnecessary changes, and keep your project moving forward.
When council planners raise concerns or request revisions, having a professional on your side can be the difference between approval and rejection.
Why Choose SilverPoint – Building Designers & Planning Consultants?
With more than 40 years' experience in town planning, SilverPoint - Building Designers & Planning Consultants has provided assistance to many homeowners, developers and businesses. We have provided pre-application advice, sought to manage objections, and facilitate approvals using professional insight and strategies aligned with your development goals.
Takeaway
The role of town planners, especially council-based ones, can be challenging and complex to understand the jargon and the terms to interpret without the proper support. A town planning consultant acts as your guide through the process, helping you make informed decisions, reduce risks, and achieve planning approval faster.
Let us simplify your planning journey and set your project up for success.
