State Government, Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) have approved Amendment VC286 to Planning Schemes in Victoria, which removes the need to obtain a planning permit for a licenced premises effective 1 July 2025.
Previously, for many types of liquor licences including Restaurant/Café and General liquor licences, both a planning permit from Council and a liquor licence from the Victorian Liquor Commission (VLC) were required to sell or consume liquor at a venue.
The change removes the need for a planning permit, saving time and money for applicants by streamlining the process. The change has been made in line with DTP’s commitment made through the Economic Growth Statement, Victoria: Open for Business December 2024
From 1 July 2025, if you are seeking a Liquor Licence, please apply to the Victorian Liquor Commission (VLC) at Apply for a liquor licence
Active planning permit applications with Council for liquor licences will no longer be required from 1 July 2025. Current applications will be closed after 1 July 2025, with advice of the updated requirements provided in writing to the applicant.
Learn more about the new requirements at Changes to Victoria’s planning rules and liquor licencing
Find more detailed information regarding the amendment at Licenced premises