Applying Online

Depending on the local council, you may be able lodge your planning application online using SPEAR (Streamlined Planning through Electronic Applications and Referrals).

SPEAR allows online lodgement and processing of planning permit applications throughout Victoria. SPEAR offers end-to-end processing and tracking of applications including lodgement, referrals, public viewing, council determination and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) appeals.

On this page:

Read the brochure for a rundown of the features of SPEAR

Why apply online?

SPEAR offers a range of benefits:

  • Free to use

  • Faster delivery time

  • Easy access

  • High security

  • No need for paper copies of documents

  • Track progress of your application any time

  • Saves time waiting for mail

  • Save money – no need to copy, scan post and collate

  • Forms are built-in and prompts for actions are automatic

  • Part processing of VCAT appeals

  • Extra property information is provided as SPEAR interacts with other Land Victoria databases.

There are around 50,000 planning applications lodged in Victoria each year. Planning applications involve high administrative overheads and an abundance of paper, manual handling and distribution of documents, lack of transparency and a high volume of enquiries by all parties wanting to know the status of an application.

SPEAR aims to increase efficiency by automating some of these actions and distributing documents to all parties electronically.

Read the SPEAR Planning brochure (PDF - 225 KB) for a brief rundown of the popular features of the SPEAR and the advantages of using the system.

Visit the SPEAR website for more information and free registration

Can I use SPEAR?

SPEAR Planning is being rolled out across the state. For the latest list of councils, referral authorities and applicants currently accepting SPEAR applications, go to the SPEAR website

This list is constantly growing, so check regularly for updates or sign up to SPEAR Bulletins to be notified directly.

Apply online

To apply for a planning permit online or to find out more about SPEAR visit the SPEAR website and register free.

Contacts

Phone or email Markus Terjung, Implementation Manager on 03 9658 4632 (during normal business hours) markus.terjung@dpcd.vic.gov.au

 


 


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