Horsham Rural City Council

Manages growth with targeted density in key areasAssesses subdivision on merit

Housing Strategy

Horsham has target of 3,300 dwellings by 2051. Council has 31 years of land supply - double the state requirement. Draft Housing Diversity and Affordability Strategy identifies need for 650 new social/affordable homes. Growth focused in existing urban areas avoiding greenfield expansion. Population growth modest at 0.2% annually. [Sources: Horsham and Natimuk Housing and Subdivision Strategy; Plan for Victoria Feb 2025]

2051 Housing Target

3,300

Source: Plan for Victoria (February 2025)

Data Confidence

high

Growth Areas

HorshamNatimukHaven

Minimal Change Areas

Rural areasGrampians surrounds

Planning Overview

## Horsham Rural City Council Planning Department Analysis **Horsham Rural City Council operates as a measured, conservative planning authority** that prioritizes sustainable growth over rapid development. With 31 years of land supply—double the state requirement—the council is **not under pressure to fast-track approvals** and tends to take a methodical approach to applications. **Processing times are typically longer than metropolitan councils**, reflecting both the rural council's smaller planning team and their thorough assessment approach. Pre-application meetings are encouraged and generally productive, but expect **8-12 weeks minimum** for straightforward residential applications, with complex proposals often extending to 16+ weeks. **Common delays include vegetation assessments** in areas near the Grampians, heritage considerations in central Horsham, and referrals to CFA for bushfire-prone locations. The department is **under-resourced compared to growth councils** but maintains experienced staff who know the local context well. **Strategically, the council strongly favors infill development** in Horsham, Natimuk, and Haven over greenfield expansion. Applications supporting their **social and affordable housing targets** (650 new homes needed) receive favorable consideration. Rural applications face **strict scrutiny regarding agricultural land protection** and landscape character preservation, particularly around Grampians tourism areas.