The Victorian Government has announced a record amount of planning and development activity in the state, with a record number of permit decisions valued at $23.2 billion announced in 2010-11, representing a 29.4 per cent increase on the previous year.

 

"The report shows a general increase in most planning activity categories with the number of permit applications increasing by 2.5 per cent together with a substantial increase in potential investment,” State Planning Minister Matthew Guy said.

 

“Given the challenging economic environment globally and at home it is important that we have an efficient and responsive planning and development sector.

 

"The Planning Permit Activity in Victoria 20010/11 report provides a formal point-in-time status of permit activity in Victoria," Mr Guy said.

 

The report’s highlights include:

  • Total applications lodged 57,280       up 2.5%
  • Estimated cost of works $23.2 billion       up 29.4%
  • Applications where public notice required 41%       up 9.8%
  • Applications where further information requested 40%       up 9.9%
  • Applications referred to a referral authority 32%       up 9.2%
  • Median days for decision (statutory period is 60 days) 76       up 4.1%

 

"The data is used in important reviews undertaken by government, including the Planning and Environment Act review, housing analysis and strategic planning programs and is a major resource for councils and the Municipal Association of Victoria.

 

Since 2003, the Planning Permit Activity Report has been produced by a partnership between the Municipal Association of Victoria and the Department of Planning and Community Development from data electronically submitted each month by all Victorian local councils.

 

The Planning Permit Activity Report 2010-11 is available at www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/planning-applications