_RULES RELAXED FOR BULKY GOODS RETAILERS IN VICTORIA

On the 19 January Amendment VC88 implemented changes to the Victorian Planning Provisions and planning schemes to relax the rules relevant to bulky goods retailing.

The changes have broadened the definition of bulky goods and remove the floor space restrictions previously in place under the Industrial 1, Industrial 3, Business 3 and Business 4 zones.

Outdoor and recreation goods including sporting, cycling, leisure, and fitness goods, animal supplies, pet goods, homewares, baby and children’s goods, children’s play equipment and accessories are now defined as bulky goods.

Previously, stores wanting to set up in bulky goods centres have been required generally to be of at least 1000 square metres (or 500 square meters for equestrian, party hire or lighting suppliers). These minimum floor area restrictions have been removed and stores of any size are now permitted provided approval is granted by the responsible authority.

Amendment VC88 has been gazetted and the changes outlined above are in operation from the 20 January 2012.

Enquiries Laura O’Higgins at Collie (lao@colliepl.com.au).