Objecting to a Planning Application
Anyone who believes they may be detrimentally affected by a planning application is entitled to object.
Objections should be lodged within 14 days from the start of the advertising period, however, late objections can be lodged at any time prior to the decision being made. Objections must be in writing, legible and include your name and address and must also state how you think the proposal will affected you.
Objections can be lodged by post, fax, email or in person, details below:
- In person at thePlanning Counter, on the ground floor at the Prahran Town Hall, corner of Chapel Street and Greville Street, Prahran.
- Mail - PO Box 21 Prahran VIC 3121
- Fax - 03 9521 2255
- Email - council@stonnington.vic.gov.au
You may still object to an application, even if you are not formally notified, as long as you have valid grounds. All objections received are made available for public inspection during the entire application process.
If you lodge an objection, you will be notified of the decision we make about the application.
Petitions and Multiple Signatories
Petitions are counted as one objection, regardless of the number of signatories. Separate objections are required from each petitioner if you wish to have objector status, otherwise only the first signatory OR any other person as directed, will be registered as an objector.
General Information for Interested Parties / Objectors
Why have I received notice of a planning application?
Notice of a planning application is issued to the owners and occupiers of adjoining land to which the application applies or any person/s that may be affected by a proposed use or development of a property.
Why is there a sign on site?
Notification may also include erecting a public notice on the subject site for a 14 day period. The notice provides information about the proposal and details of where the plans and relevant documentation can be viewed, as well as when objections should be lodged against a planning application.
How can I object?
Any person/s that may be affected by a proposal can lodge an objection with Council. Objections must be made in writing and clearly state the reasons for the objection. You must include the objectors name, address and telephone number. Objection forms are available from the Planning Counter or Council's website and you may also email your objection to council@stonnington.vic.gov.au. Council will formally acknowledge your objection in writing.
What kind of issues can I object to?
Council can consider any objections that are based on legitimate planning grounds (devaluation or property values and commercial competition are not considered a valid objection). Note that all objections are public documents that must be made available for public viewing (pursuant to the Planning & Environment Act).
Can I discuss the application with Council?
Yes, any person can visit or telephone the Planning Unit;
Planning Officers are available to assist with any queries, from 8:30am until 5:00pm, Monday to Friday.
When should I lodge an objection?
Council can consider any objections received, until a decision is made. It is recommended that objections be lodged prior to the date indicated on the bottom of the notice of application in order for all comments to be given sufficient consideration.
What happens after an objection is lodged?
Depending on the number of objections received, Council may conduct a Consultation Meeting with the applicant and objectors, allowing all interested parties to discuss the application. All objectors will be informed in writing if a meeting is required. The date and time of the meeting will be based on the availability of the Ward Councillors.
Does Council have the final say?
If an applicant or objector does not agree with Council's decision, an Application for Review (appeal) can be lodged with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). For more information, or to lodge an Application for Review contact VCAT - Planning and Environment List on 9628 9777.