Oct 2022
It’s been 3 years in the making and Future Homes is now live.
Planning scheme amendment VC224 was gazetted on 28 October 2022. This means, among other VPP changes, the Maribyrnong Planning Scheme has been updated to introduce the Future Homes pilot project including a new and bespoke planning provision to facilitate the streamlined delivery of high-quality, sustainable and liveable apartments, using one of the 4 Future Homes exemplar designs.
Future Homes are a partnership project between Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), including Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA) and Maribyrnong City Council.
It does not seek to impose apartment development but instead, improve the quality of low-scaled apartment developments that are already happening. It facilitates the building of better apartments, in areas capable of supporting gentle density increases.
There are 4 different exemplar designs available for purchase and adapt, to suit individual needs, different site context and conditions. If adapted correctly, planning approval could be achieved in less than half the current typical planning timeframes.
Clear locational parameters are introduced so it is easy to understand which sites can support a Future Homes proposal, avoiding the need to reinterrogate whether gentle density is appropriate in specific locations. To further simplify this process, an interactive map has been created for public use.
Mandatory planning requirements are introduced to maintain the commitment of high-quality design, sustainability and liveability, and provides clear direction to applicants on what matters cannot be varied.
DTP, including OVGA are embedded into the process to further assist applicants and council in achieving the high quality, liveable and sustainable outcomes committed to under Future Homes.
There is the possibility of additional monetary savings for early takers, enquire with the Future Home team.
Contact the Future Homes team at futurehomes@transport.vic.gov.au for information
Page last updated: 06/08/24