- Treasurer
The Andrews Labor Government has ordered a comprehensive review of Victoria’s building and planning approvals processes to remove red tape, and streamline local and state government planning systems.
Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas and Planning Minister Richard Wynne have instructed the Red Tape Commissioner complete a review, aimed at removing delays and support the delivery of essential housing and infrastructure.
The review will build on the findings of the Essential Services Commission review of electricity connection delays to identify further improvement opportunities for early-building works approvals and utility connections.
In consultation with key industry experts, the review will focus on the internal and external referral processes that affect the State’s capacity to deliver housing, business and infrastructure investment efficiently.
Victoria’s planning system currently suffers from multiple referral processes and duplications, as well as widely variable internal referral processes within local government.
The findings of the review are due to be handed to government by the end of the year.
The review is particularly timely in light of the continued growth in Victoria’s construction pipeline.
In 2018, the value of construction work done in Victoria grew by more than 15 per cent – the highest rate of growth in the nation – with the value of residential and non-residential building work increasing by 9.1 per cent.
As stated by Treasurer Tim Pallas
“This comprehensive review will be the catalyst for much needed change in Victoria’s planning systems.”
“It will reduce red tape and create simpler approval processes – boosting our capacity to deliver the housing, business and infrastructure investment Victoria needs.”
As stated by Planning Minister Richard Wynne
“We want to create a more streamlined, efficient and effective planning system to deliver construction projects quicker, support jobs and boost our economic competitiveness.”
“We’re striking the right balance between thorough scrutiny and efficiency in our planning decisions.”
