The basics of objecting to a planning application

Here are the first things to understand about advertised planning applications and the link between objecting and permit reviews at VCAT:

1. While affected parties may be notified in person, anyone may lodge an objection.
2. An objection can lead to negotiations about changes to the plans. It can influence the proposed development and affect what gets approved.
3. Most importantly, the objection must have some merit under the planning scheme to be considered.
4. An objection prevents the council from issuing a permit. Instead, the council can only issue a Notice of Decision (NOD) to grant a permit.
5. An objector has 28 days from the Notice of Decision (NOD), to apply for a review of the decision at VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal). An application for review means the council cannot issue the permit.