Planning panels allows the public to participate in the planning and environmental decision making process.

They independently assess planning proposals by considering submissions, conducting hearings and preparing reports.

Planning panels provide advice and make recommendations. The final decision is made by the appropriate statutory bodies, or the Minister.

Planning panels are established either under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 or the Environment Effects Act 1978.

Planning panels are administered by Planning Panels Victoria, located within the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

Below is a comprehensive list of guides produced by Planning Panels Victoria on their processes and hearings.

Guides

What is a Panel?

Common questions about panel procedures, for anyone attending a panel hearing for the first time.

Guide to the public hearing

What is likely to happen at a hearing.

Guide to expert evidence

How expert evidence is to be prepared, circulated and presented.

Guide to witnesses providing evidence through remote conferencing

Direction for expert witnesses giving evidence remotely.

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Guide to recording hearings

How requests to record the hearings are generally dealt with.

Guide to committees and inquiries

Types of advisory committees and environment effects inquiries that can be appointed by the Minister for Planning.

Guide to using MS Teams at PPV

How to participate in Hearings conducted over MS Teams.

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Guide for planning authorities: Pre-setting Hearing dates

The process that planning and responsible authorities need to follow when setting panel hearing dates for Planning Scheme Amendment Panels.

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Guide for planning authorities: Making a panel request

An overview of what is required from planning authorities when making a panel request.

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Guide for planning authorities: The Hearing process

A guide for planning authorities on what to expect during the panel process.

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Guide for planning authorities: Requirements for COVIDSafe Hearings

A guide for planning authorities with requirements for COVIDSafe Hearings.

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More information

If you still have a query about planning panels and hearings, visit our frequently asked questions page.

☎ Phone: (03) 8624 5719
✉ Email:  planning.panels@delwp.vic.gov.au
Post: GPO Box 2392, Melbourne, 3001

Planning Panels Victoria is located at 1 Spring Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000

Page last updated: 13/10/21