The State Government is ensuring bushfire-affected East Gippslanders can more easily rebuild their homes and businesses by fast tracking the planning process.
Under the new streamlined process, applications to rebuild dwellings or businesses damaged or destroyed by bushfire after January 1, 2019, will be exempt from some planning requirements – meaning permit applications can be assessed much faster.
“This will make things easier for families and businesses that have already been through so much and are working hard to get back on their feet,” Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, said.
“These measures will fast-track the planning process and help make the road to recovery that much quicker for hundreds of Victorians.”
While still subject to basic requirements, these types of applications will be exempt from the public notice period as well as being exempt from third party appeals to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
The new process also allows a CEO or delegate to make decisions on applications, rather than the full council – again clearing a path through the planning process for those seeking to rebuild.
The streamlined planning process will apply to all homes damaged or destroyed in this summer’s bushfires.
The changes follow measures already introduced allowing bushfire-affected East Gippslanders to build temporary residential or commercial accommodation on their land without a planning permit, subject to safety requirements.
The temporary accommodation is valid for a maximum of three years, giving people time to transition to permanent accommodation.
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning will help guide councils and the community through the new streamlined planning process.
