_Speedier Objector Review Applications to VCAT

As of last Monday (6 July 2026), a six months trial commenced in Victoria of some time reductions in the process of objector review applications (under section 82(1) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987) to the Victorian Civil and Adminitrative Tribunal (VCAT).  In summary, during the trial period such applications for review will be subject to:

• a compulsory conference 10 weeks after application lodgement (a reduction of 2 weeks);
• scheduling of hearings (if required) 8 weeks after the compulsory conference (a reduction of 4 weeks). 

It will be interesting to see the results of the trial including the acceptance by parties of the new reduced preparation times.  We hope it proves successful.