Episode 05: Navigating Australia’s Planning System: Approvals, ResCode and Red Tape for Inner-City Homeowners

Australia needs more homes - but builders are stuck in a maze of planning approvals, ResCode rules and red tape. In this episode, Melbourne builder Simon Clark (Sustainable Homes Melbourne) breaks down why housing targets are being missed, how planning vs. building approvals actually work, and where projects get trapped - especially with ResCode, Report & Consent, and the 2023 VC243 amendment.Simon shares real site examples (inner-city Melbourne), the hidden risks of assuming a planning permit = ready to build, and the knock-on costs of delays (RFIs, arborist reports, flooding overlays, protection works, traffic management, asset protection). You’ll learn what to expect, how to mitigate delays, and when to engage a Town Planner so your renovation or new build doesn’t stall.You’ll learn:Planning vs. building surveyor roles (and why both matter)ResCode basics, Report & Consent, and VC243’s impact on small lotsCommon delay triggers (heritage overlays, RFIs, flooding, arborists)Real costs of timeline blowouts—and how to minimise themPractical steps for homeowners, architects, and buildersWho it’s for: Homeowners planning a custom build/renovation, architects/designers, and builders navigating approvals in Melbourne and across Australia.If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.