Applications for non-government schools

Planning permits

The Minister for Planning is the responsible authority for:

• new non-government primary or secondary schools
• construction of buildings and works at existing non-government schools with an estimated cost of development of $3 million or more
• ancillary education centre uses, such as a childcare centre or kindergarten, undertaken in conjunction with a non-government primary or secondary school on the same land, or contiguous land in the same ownership

We have established planning laws and a dedicated planning team to fast track non-government school planning approvals for new schools and upgrades. This applies to all non-government schools regardless of funding source.

The fast track assessment pathways are graduated according to the size, scale and location of non-government school development.

Request a pre-application meeting

Start a planning permit application

VicSmart permits

Non-government schools may apply using the VicSmart planning process for a maximum cost of development up to $500,000 for the following zones:

• Clause 32.03 Low Density Residential Zone
• Clause 32.04 Mixed Use Zone
• Clause 32.05 Township Zone
• Clause 32.07 Residential Growth Zone
• Clause 32.08 General Residential Zone
• Clause 32.09 Neighbourhood Residential Zone

Applications must meet all other VicSmart eligibility criteria.

Start a VicSmart application

Page last updated: 01/05/25