Urban Design Guidelines for Victoria 2.0

Why urban design matters

Urban design shapes the built environment and the public realm, including streets, parks, public spaces and the interfaces between buildings and public places. Good urban design improves accessibility, safety, comfort, sustainability and community wellbeing, creating places that work well today and continue to support future generations.

Scope and statutory role

The Urban Design Guidelines for Victoria are policy guidelines within the State Planning Policy Framework of the Victoria Planning Provisions. The guidelines must be considered when assessing the design and built form of new development where relevant. The guidelines use best practice knowledge and advice underpinned by sound evidence.

Who should use the guidelines?

The guidelines support state and local government, planners, designers, engineers, infrastructure agencies, developers and land managers involved in shaping urban environments. They can be applied at multiple scales, from strategic and structure planning through to precinct, street and project delivery.

Using the guidelines

The guidelines provide a common foundation for urban design practice across Victoria. They are intended to be used alongside planning policy, Movement and Place assessments, structure plans and other relevant guidance. They support informed decision-making and encourage integrated, context-responsive outcomes rather than prescribing a single design solution.