17 February 2026
The Victorian Parliament has passed the Planning Amendment (Better Decisions Made Faster) Act 2026 (the Act), and today it has received Royal Assent.
Once fully implemented, the Act will amend the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to provide a more effective and efficient statutory planning framework for Victoria. The changes will support the delivery of Victoria’s Housing Statement and the actions of Plan for Victoria, including the aim to build 2.24 million homes across Melbourne and our regional cities and towns over the next 30 years.
The passage of this Act marks a significant step forward in our work to create a more modern, fit-for-purpose planning system for Victoria, and is the most significant update to Victoria’s planning legislation and systems in decades.
The Act has established clear pathways for planning permits and planning scheme amendments that are proportionate to complexity, risk and the potential impacts of projects. This will allow lower impact amendments and permits to be processed and approved faster, making it more efficient and cost effective for councils and Government to make planning decisions that will unlock housing and economic opportunities.
The Bill will come into full effect by 29 October 2027. This will allow time for us to prepare supporting changes to our planning system including changes to the Planning and Environment Regulations 2015, preparing new Ministerial guidelines, updating the Victoria Planning Provisions, and other updates to Victoria’s planning schemes and guidance materials.
We will consult with local government, the development industry and the community as we make these supporting changes over the coming years.
Find out more: Updating the Planning and Environment Act
Page last updated: 19/03/26