The Victorian Planning System

Book excerpt: The Victorian Planning System: Practice, Problems and Prospects is a successor to Statutory Planning in Victoria (4th edition) and provides an accessible introduction to the Victorian planning system. Written with both urban planners and users of the system in mind, it seeks to demystify a complex system. The structure and design of planning schemes are explained in simple terms, along with a discussion of how planning decisions are made. Common planning processes - such as planning permit applications, appeals and planning scheme amendments - are covered in detail.The book is structured around exploration of a variety of urban policy challenges, including housing supply, activity centre planning, heritage and environmental issues. How does planning strategy in these areas translate into action? Too often, the way that the planning system achieves on-the-ground outcomes is glossed over. This book aims to remedy that oversight by exploring the realities of policy implementation through regulatory design. In doing so, it offers a critique of the Victorian system, and suggests ways in which it could more effectively achieve visionary policy goals."Dr Stephen Rowley's book demystifies the planning system in accessible language and with an engaging narrative. Students, practitioners and citizens consulting this volume will be duly empowered to make the most of a system, which, for all its foibles, remains a powerful force shaping our lives." From the Foreword by Dr Marcus Spiller The Victorian Planning System: Practice, Problems and Prospects was awarded a Commendation in the Cutting Edge Teaching and Research category at the 2017 Victorian Planning Institute Awards.