• Wodonga Council
    •
  • City Heart
    •
    ...
    Wodonga Council
    The planning process

    Page URL: https://www.wodonga.vic.gov.au/Building-Planning/Planning/The-planning-process

    The planning process

     /  Building + PlanningPlanningThe planning process

    Perhaps you have plans to extend your home or build a new one. Perhaps your neighbours are proposing to build a second house or subdivide their block.

    These are just a few of the many reasons why you may find yourself involved in the planning process often whether you want to be or not. However it happens, when it does it can be confusing and even a little daunting. But it need not be.

    Planning is an essential part of the development process. Good planning can mean the difference between an average development and an excellent outcome that meets the community’s expectations. 

    The planning process can also provide anyone with an interest in a proposed use or development to get involved and have their say.

    Does it cost to make a planning application?

    Yes. Application fees vary according to the application type and value of works and are statutory fees which are set by the Victorian Government.

    You can view the fees and charges here.

    How long will a decision on my application take?

    Many applications are processed within 60 working days.

    Our planners will work on several applications simultaneously and decision times will vary depending on workload, complexity and scale of an application.

    Where public notification and/or referral agency input or further information is required, this can extend the timeframes of decisions. You do need to plan ahead and allow enough time for the permit process to occur prior to commencing works.

    How do I lodge a planning application or meet with a planner?

    Applications for planning approval can be lodged either via mail or at our Hovell St offices.

    A planner is available in the office from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, for one-hour appointments. You can make an appointment by phoning the community focus team on (02) 6022 9300.

    How is a decision made?

    Wodonga Council planning officers will assess the application on the following:

    • State Planning Policy Framework;
    • Council's Municipal Strategic Statement;
    • Local planning policies for Wodonga;
    • Land use and development controls;
    • The proposal's response to the site context;
    • Whether the proposal maintains or enhances the character of an area;
    • Whether the amenity of adjoining properties is compromised by the proposed development and/or use; and
    • Submissions from referral authorities, neighbours and other interested parties as applicable.
    Who makes the decision?

    Our planning officers have delegated authority from the council to consider and decide on most planning permit applications.

    This includes refusal of applications. Councillors are regularly briefed on the determinations made by the delegated officers.

    The council does make decisions on applications where there have been more than five objections or major or controversial proposals.

    Can I challenge the council's decision?

    Yes, if you do not agree with a determination of ours, you can make an application for review of our decision through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

    However, prior to doing this you are encouraged to contact our statutory planning team before lodging an appeal and discuss the matter first.

    Can my planning permit be extended?

    Yes, provided it has not expired.

    A condition on your planning permit will set down the time period by which the development and/or use must commence or be completed. The permit will expire if the permit is not complied with in the specified times.

    An application for extension to this time can be made for within three months of expiry. The application must be accompanied by the applicable fee and an explanation as to why and for how long an extension to the permit is sought.

    What do I need to know about A-SPEC Standard Data Specification?

    It is important that Wodonga Council captures and records accurate information about infrastructure assets created and gifted to the council from developers or appointed contractors completing capital works projects.

    The key objectives of utilising A-SPEC Standard Data Specifications as part of the asset and asset data handover process is to streamline internal and external stakeholder processes for receiving, handling and storing of data related to newly constructed infrastructure assets either from subdivision developments or internal programs (e.g. capital works) in Wodonga's GIS and Asset Systems.

    Under the council's current planning process, developers will need to ensure any storm water data provided to council meets the DSPEC standard GIS format.

    See the attached file for the workflow. 

    Common questions:

    1. Are there instructional guides issued by the council?

    Please register with GISSA to obtain a copy of the complete DSPEC requirements. D-Spec | A-SPEC - Digital Data Specifications (a-specstandards.com.au)

    1. What software should I use to prepare D-Spec data?

    D-SEPC is a data specification, and you can choose any software that you are familiar with or suitable for your workflow. Common GIS or CAD drawing software, like QGIS, AutoCAD Civil 3D or ArcGIS, all works well with .shp format.

    1. Can council provide a template?

    User can download D-SPEC .shp format template from this link:  DSPEC .SHP Template | City of Wodonga GIS Open Data Hub (arcgis.com)

    1. How do I check if my data meets D-SEPC requirements?

    Visit D-SEPC validation portal to check your data quality. DSEPC Validation (wodonga.vic.gov.au)

    1. How to submit data?

    Please email your complete D-SEPC in zip format to inbox: ascon@wodonga.vic.gov.au