Changes to Unit Development Planning rules and why it's more important than ever to hire the right team

If you’re thinking about developing a residential site in Victoria — whether it's a dual occupancy, townhouses, or a multi-unit project — there’s been a major change you need to know about.

Clause 55 (ResCode) has recently been updated, and the changes are designed to bring more certainty and consistency to the planning process. But with that comes a shift in how projects need to be approached — and who you trust to guide them.

What’s Changed?

Clause 55 is the key set of residential development standards in Victoria. The recent updates introduce clearer, more measurable requirements — things like setbacks, site coverage, private open space, and daylight access now come with stricter and more defined rules.

This means local councils can more easily determine if a design complies, which sounds great — and it is. The updates aim to:

• Speed up planning permit approvals

• Create more consistent outcomes

• Deliver better-designed, higher-quality homes

  
  

But the flip side? You can no longer rely on vague or “flexible” interpretations. Meeting the new standards requires much more work and precision in the design stage — and that’s where many projects will either succeed or fall apart.

Why This Is Great News (If You’re Prepared)

In simple terms, these updates are good news for developers. A faster, clearer planning process means less back-and-forth with council, fewer costly redesigns, and more confidence in your project’s viability.

But to take advantage of these changes, you need to get the front-end right.

Designing to meet these standards isn’t just about drawing up plans. It requires a deep understanding of the updated code, a strategic design approach, and the experience to pre-empt compliance issues before they derail the project.

The Designer You Choose Will Make or Break Your Project

Here’s where many developers — especially those new to the game — can get caught out. It’s tempting to go with the cheapest designer or draftsman to save a bit upfront. But in the current climate, cutting corners in design almost always leads to delays, extra costs, and missed opportunities.

With these new changes, a lot more work will be needed at the design stage to factor in every compliance detail from the beginning, so there are fewer surprises and far less rework later on.

Yes, that level of detail and service may cost a bit more at the start — but the value it brings over the life of your project is significant:

• Reduced delays and fewer objections

• More confidence in feasibility and return

• Optimised layouts that actually meet market demand

• Smarter design results in more effecient construction costs

• Stronger resale and rental value through better design outcomes

Think of it as investing early to maximise your return later.

New Clause 55 changes that affect the design outcome

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re sitting on a block and considering a development — or just trying to make sense of how the process works — we’re here to help.

At Ikonik Design, we specialise in smart, compliant residential development design. We speak council’s language, understand the latest planning changes, and know how to design for both compliance and commercial success.

Let’s make your development not just possible — but profitable.

Reach out to us at nathan@ikonikdesign.com.au and let’s talk about your site.