Unlocking the Power of VICSMART in Urban Planning and Development

VICSMART Applications for Dual Occupancies in Victoria: Faster Planning Approvals Without Cutting Corners

For property owners and small developers looking to build a dual occupancy in Victoria, navigating the planning permit process can often be the biggest cause of delays. In recent years, VICSMART planning applications have provided a faster alternative for eligible developments — particularly for straightforward dual occupancy projects.

However, while VICSMART can significantly reduce council wait times, it’s important to understand that it does not reduce the level of design work required, nor is it suitable for every site.

What Is a VICSMART Planning Application?

VICSMART is a streamlined planning permit process introduced by the Victorian Government to fast-track low-impact and compliant developments. Councils are required to assess eligible VICSMART applications within a much shorter timeframe than standard planning permits.

For qualifying dual occupancy developments, this can mean approvals in weeks rather than months — a major advantage in today’s market.

VICSMART Dual Occupancies: Faster Council Decisions, Not Less Design Work

A common misunderstanding is that a VICSMART application means a simpler or cheaper design process. In reality, VICSMART often requires more detailed and resolved design work upfront.

Because the process allows:

• Limited advertising

• Minimal negotiation

• Fewer opportunities for design changes once lodged

The documentation must be thorough, compliant, and clear from day one. This includes:

• Detailed site analysis

• Strong compliance with ResCode standards

• Careful consideration of neighbourhood character

• Accurate setbacks, overlooking, overshadowing, and private open space outcomes

The key difference is not the amount of professional input — it’s where the time is spent. More effort is required early so the application can move through council quickly and smoothly.

The Real Financial Benefit: Reduced Holding Costs

While VICSMART does not reduce professional design or documentation fees, it can significantly reduce overall project costs by cutting down approval time.

Shorter planning timeframes mean:

• Reduced interest and holding costs

• Faster project certainty

• Earlier commencement of construction

• Less risk of applications sitting idle on a planner’s desk for months

For many dual occupancy projects, this time saving can translate into substantial financial benefits, even though the design process itself remains comprehensive.

Not All Dual Occupancy Sites Qualify for VICSMART

VICSMART is not available for all properties in Victoria. One of the most common disqualifiers is the presence of planning overlays.

In particular:

• Sites affected by Design and Development Overlays (DDOs) are not eligible for VICSMART

• Heritage Overlays and other restrictive planning controls may also exclude a site

• The development must meet strict size, scale, and design criteria

If a site does not qualify, the application must proceed through the standard planning permit process.

This is why an early planning feasibility and overlay assessment is critical before committing to a VICSMART pathway.

Is VICSMART the Right Planning Pathway for Your Dual Occupancy?

When used on the right site, VICSMART can be an excellent solution for achieving faster planning approval for dual occupancies in Victoria. However, it is not a shortcut around good design or proper documentation.

Successful VICSMART dual occupancy applications rely on:

• Careful site selection

• Policy-driven architectural design

• High-quality drawings and planning reports

• A strong understanding of local council requirements

When done correctly, VICSMART reduces delays, lowers holding costs, and delivers clearer timelines — without compromising on design quality or compliance.