City of Melbourne

Encourages housing growth and densityGenerally supportive of subdivision

Housing Strategy

Melbourne strongly supports subdivision and high-density development, with 70% of new homes targeted for established areas. The city has the second highest housing target in Victoria, more than doubling 2023 dwelling numbers. Council focuses growth around activity centres close to stations and transport. [Sources: City of Melbourne Housing Targets Response; Plan for Victoria Feb 2025]

2051 Housing Target

119,500

Source: Plan for Victoria (February 2025) - Second highest target in state after Geelong

Data Confidence

high

Growth Areas

CBDSouthbankDocklandsFishermans BendArdenMacaulayNorth Melbourne

Minimal Change Areas

Heritage precincts in CarltonEast Melbourne heritage areasParkville residential

Planning Overview

## City of Melbourne Planning Department Analysis The **City of Melbourne is highly developer-friendly** with a clear pro-growth agenda, actively encouraging high-density development and subdivision to meet their ambitious target of 119,500 new dwellings by 2051. The council's strategic focus on established areas like CBD, Southbank, and emerging precincts like Fishermans Bend makes them **receptive to significant development proposals** that align with their density objectives. **Processing times are generally efficient** for a major metropolitan council, with pre-application meetings readily available and strong emphasis on early engagement. The department is **well-resourced and experienced** in handling complex, large-scale developments given their central Melbourne location and constant development pressure. **Common delays typically involve heritage assessments** in protected precincts like Carlton and East Melbourne, where the council maintains strict character protection despite their growth stance. Wind impact studies and traffic referrals can also create bottlenecks for major developments. The planning department demonstrates a **pragmatic, business-oriented approach** with clear strategic priorities around transit-oriented development. **Expect supportive treatment** for proposals in designated growth areas, but anticipate rigorous assessment processes for developments impacting heritage precincts or requiring significant infrastructure considerations.