Victorian Government unveils fast-tracked mid-rise housing reforms

Apartments & Developments attended a media event this morning where Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny announced plans to fast-track medium-density housing across Melbourne’s suburbs.

The proposed “mid-rise code” is designed to streamline approvals for developments of between four and six storeys, forming part of a broader push to increase housing supply in established areas - particularly those close to public transport, jobs and services.

A push to unlock the ‘missing middle’

Under the proposed changes, developments that comply with the new planning standards will be approved through an expedited process, removing the ability for residents to challenge these projects at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

It is hoped these changes could reduce average approval timeframes by around five months, helping to lower the cost of delivering new homes.

The reforms are expected to come into effect within 28 days of being gazetted.

The policy targets what is often referred to as the “missing middle” - housing types that sit between detached homes and high-rise apartments.

Where the changes will apply

The new code will apply only in areas where buildings of four to six storeys are already permitted.

Developments will still need to comply with existing planning controls, including heritage and flood overlays. Projects that do not meet the code will continue through the standard planning process.

The announcement builds on earlier planning reforms, including the introduction of a townhouse code aimed at streamlining approvals for low-rise housing across Melbourne.

Part of a broader planning shift

The reforms follow the recent release of finalised maps for 25 designated “activity centres” across Victoria, which outline development boundaries and building heights in areas located near train and tram corridors.

In some inner-north locations, including Brunswick and Coburg, proposed building heights have increased, while in suburbs such as Kew Junction, Oakleigh and Middle Brighton, height limits remain more moderate.

What it means for buyers

For buyers, particularly those considering off-the-plan apartments or townhomes, the changes signal a potential increase in housing supply in well-located suburban areas.

Faster approval pathways may also improve project certainty and timelines, although outcomes will ultimately depend on how consistently the new code is applied in practice.

As planning reforms continue to evolve, buyers may see a broader mix of mid-rise housing options emerge across Melbourne’s established suburbs - particularly in areas close to transport, employment and lifestyle amenity.

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