How Amendment VC267 is Changing Dual Occupancy Development in Melbourne
Q: What is Amendment VC267 and how does it affect dual occupancy in Melbourne?
A: Amendment VC267 introduces the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code to streamline planning for dual occupancy and low-rise developments in Victoria. It reduces setbacks, standardises assessments across councils, and aims to speed up approvals — especially benefiting Mum-and-Dad developers in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.
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What Is Amendment VC267?
On 31 March 2025, the Victorian Government introduced Amendment VC267, a game-changer for small-scale residential development across Melbourne. At the heart of this update is the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, designed to streamline the planning process, encourage housing supply, and make it easier for everyday landowners — especially Mum-and-Dad investors — to develop dual occupancy projects in compliance with standardised, efficient planning rules.
VC267 is a planning scheme amendment that introduced:
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A reformed Clause 55 (ResCode)
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A brand-new Clause 57: Townhouse and Low-Rise Code
These changes apply to dual occupancy, townhouse, and low-rise residential developments up to 3 storeys across Victoria. It simplifies and unifies requirements across all councils.
If you’re considering dual occupancy in Melbourne’s inner-west, this new amendment could unlock significant opportunities.
Key Changes That Affect Dual Occupancy Projects
| Feature | Previous Standard | VC267 Update |
|---|---|---|
| Front setback | 9m typical | Reduced to 6m |
| Assessment | Varies by council | Standardised statewide |
| Private open space | 60m² typical | Reduced to 40m² in many cases |
| Tree canopy | Often unclear | Now required based on site area |
| Permit timeframes | Up to 12 months | Can be as little as 3 months if streamlined |
What This Means for Mum-and-Dad Developers
VC267 is designed to make it easier and faster to get approval for compliant dual occupancy projects — especially in areas like Altona North, Glenroy, Frankston, Williamstown, Brighton and Hampton.
Here’s how it helps:
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More land becomes viable for dual occ due to reduced setbacks and open space.
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Faster approvals if your design meets the code.
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Less ambiguity around what’s allowed across different councils.
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More flexibility in design while maintaining sustainability and amenity.
What You Still Need to Consider
VC267 doesn’t remove the need for good design — you still need to meet amenity, privacy, and liveability standards.
Things to watch for:
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Overlay controls still apply — such as heritage, flood, and bushfire overlays which can override the Code.
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Not all councils have adopted streamlined assessments — rollout may vary.
Pro Tip: Working with a design team familiar with amendment VC267 and your local council overlays is critical.
How Barnes & Matina Can Help
As VBA-registered building designers focused on Melbourne’s inner-suburbs, we’ve already started designing dual occupancy projects in accord with VC267.
We offer:
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Feasibility assessments under the new code
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Planning permit guidance for local councils
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Cost-effective, builder-ready plans that work with the new standards
Final Thoughts
VC267 is a massive opportunity for everyday investors and landowners to create wealth through dual occupancy. But like any regulation, the benefits come when it’s applied correctly and strategically.
FAQs About Amendment VC267
1. What is the purpose of Amendment VC267?
Amendment VC267 aims to simplify the planning process and standardise rules for townhouse and low-rise residential developments, including dual occupancy projects.
2. Does VC267 apply to all councils in Victoria?
Yes, VC267 is a statewide amendment, but the rollout of streamlined assessments may vary by council.
3. Can I skip a planning permit under VC267?
You may qualify for a faster permit process if your project fully complies with Clause 57, but permits are still generally required.
4. Will heritage overlays affect my eligibility?
Yes, overlays like heritage, flood, or bushfire can override the streamlined code, so site-specific assessments are still necessary.
5. How much land do I need to build a dual occupancy under VC267?
With reduced setbacks and open space requirements, more modest blocks may now qualify — but a feasibility study is recommended.
6. Who can help me navigate VC267 for my site?
Registered designers like Barnes & Matina offer tailored advice, feasibility assessments, and VC267-compliant plans to guide your project.
Let’s create. redefine. living.
Ready to start your Dual Occupancy in Melbourne’s Inner-West? TOUCH BASE WITH US
Contact Barnes & Matina today for expert guidance tailored to your vision and the unique requirements of your architectural landscape.
For additional insights into what is possible, visit Houzz or Pinterest for some inspo
