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Better apartments design standards
Better apartments design standards set out how apartments can be designed to provide good functional places to live.
The standards are implemented in the Victoria Planning Provisions and can be found at:
Apartment design guidelines for Victoria
The Apartment Design Guidelines provide design guidance and explanation of the Better Apartments Design Standards.
VC256 has amended the landscaping standards. The current guidelines will be updated to make Table D2 on page 33 change imminently in line with clause 55.07 and 58.03. See these clauses in the VPP for up-to-date versions of the standard.
National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 changes
From 1 May 2024, National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 changes come into effect and there are areas of overlap with the accessibility and energy efficiency (cooling load) standards for apartment developments (‘apartment standards’) in the Victoria Planning Provisions and all planning schemes. Accordingly, the Department of Transport and Planning reminds responsible authorities, and planning and building industry practitioners generally, that compliance with the requirements set through Building Act 1993 and subordinate regulations, including the NCC, is mandatory. Responsible authorities should seek to ensure that decisions on planning permit applications for apartment developments do not result in any inconsistencies with the NCC’s accessibility and cooling load requirements which could be considered non-compliant. If you have any questions about the NCC 2022 changes, please email: planning.systems@transport.vic.gov.au
Buyer and renters guide
The Better apartment living buyers and renters guide helps consumers make informed choices.
The guide contains tips to assist people when considering renting or buying an apartment and contains links to further information including checklists and rental advice provided by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Page last updated: 17/04/26