The Development Facilitation Program (DFP) can expedite the consideration of certain eligible permit applications and planning scheme amendments subject to meeting conditions, including agreeing to an affordable housing contribution. Understanding delivery options and working out the best model as part of planning application process best places landowners and developers to deliver.
Clause 53.22 (significant economic development), Clause 53.23 (significant residential development with affordable housing) enable certain planning permit applications to be made to the Minister for Planning (rather than the local council).
Under the provisions, the Minister for Planning can:
- waive or vary mandatory planning scheme requirements relating to building height, setbacks and garden area
- waive or vary a condition opposite a use in Section 2 in a zone or a schedule to a zone for an application made under Clause 53.23
- waive any application requirement if it is determined irrelevant to the assessment of the application.
Decisions made by the Minister for Planning under the provisions cannot be appealed to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
These benefits can support project timeliness and feasibility – meaning more homes can be built faster and developers can move on to the next project.
Eligibility for DFP assessment
| In addition to meeting eligibility requirements, an application to the DFP must include an affordable housing report that demonstrates how the affordable housing contribution specified in clause 53.23-4 – being at least 10 per cent of the total number of dwellings in the proposed development provided as affordable housing or an alternative contribution towards the provision of affordable housing will be provided. |
Affordable Development Outcomes understands Affordable Housing
We support landowners and developers to understand and assess affordable housing delivery options and the pros and cons of different approaches. We draw on up-to-date evidence to inform decisions about dwelling mix – which can influence delivery and feasibility of your project, and our expertise on delivery models and understanding of the community housing sector to determine the optimal model and partnerships.
We have prepared strategies for major planning scheme amendments and large scale permits across Greater Melbourne and regional Victoria. Recent advice has support build-to-rent projects that also seek to meet Managed Investment Trust (MIT) requirements for affordable housing.
Contact Kate to discuss how we can assist you to meet the DFP requirements for affordable housing in your project.
