_VicSmart Applications Threshold Increases

On 20 April 2026, amendment VC307 came into operation under all planning schemes in Victoria. 

VC307 increases the development cost threshold of planning permit applications for buildings and works that are eligible for processing on the speedier VicSmart assessment pathway.  The changed thresholds are relevant to many zones / overlays under all planning schemes.  The threshold variations vary between zones / overlays but as an example, in the General Residential and Neighbourhood Residential Zones, the development cost threshold has been increased:

• by 50 percent from $100,000 to $150,000 for developments NOT associated with a dwelling, primary school or secondary school;
• by 40 per cent from $500,000 to $700,000 for development associated with a primary school or secondary school. 

It will be interesting to see over time what these changes will mean for the timing in achieving planning permits that have development costs above the threshold; without additional planning resources will the increased VicSmart fast-tracked applications further delay non-VicSmart applications?