Planning & Development
From initial planning and compliance to council negotiations and appeals
Dealing with the many complex laws, regulations and norms around development can give a headache to even the most experienced developers.
Of course, development can involve bringing together many professional advisors to work alongside one another as a team and bring about the result you're after.
That might include town planners, geotechnical advice, structural advice, planners and architects, lawyers and many more.
Quinn & Quinn understands that a big development is a commercial endeavour — and the legal aspect is just one piece of the larger puzzle.
We can work together with your advisors to ensure that you are receiving the best input from all segments so that your applications, appeals and lodgements go as smoothly as possible.
Of course, not all applications for developments run accordingly to plan. Sometimes council wrongly rejects an application on questionable grounds.
Other times there can be community opposition which can require a delicate and common sense approach to ensure that the weight of public opinion doesn't throw your development into delays and extra costs that don't need to be incurred.
From initial planning and compliance, to negotiations with community and council, to reviews and appeals of council conditions — Quinn & Quinn can help you with your development and planning requirements from go to woah.
Frequently Asked Questions
You have the right to appeal to VCAT (the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal) within 60 days of the decision. VCAT will reconsider the application on its merits, and the Tribunal is not bound by council's decision. Many permits that are refused by council are subsequently granted at VCAT.
Not always, but a lawyer can add real value where the development is significant, the planning controls are complex, or there is likely to be objection from neighbours or the community. Having legal input early can also help structure the application to minimise the risk of refusal or onerous conditions.
Timeframes vary, but a typical planning appeal at VCAT takes around four to six months from lodgement to hearing. More complex matters or those requiring expert evidence may take longer. We can advise you on likely timeframes based on the specifics of your case.
Why Choose Quinn & Quinn
Local Council Knowledge
Based in Brighton, we understand the Bayside planning scheme and the local council processes that affect your development.
Team Approach
We work alongside your town planners, architects and other consultants so the legal advice fits within the broader project strategy.
VCAT Experience
If council refuses or imposes unreasonable conditions, we can represent you at VCAT to seek the outcome your project deserves.
Commercial Mindset
We understand that development is a business. Our advice is shaped by your commercial objectives, not just the legal technicalities.
How We Work
Understand Your Project
We get across your development plans, the site, the applicable planning controls and your commercial objectives so our advice is targeted and useful.
Navigate the Process
We assist with applications, respond to council requests for further information, manage objections and negotiate conditions alongside your planning team.
Appeal If Needed
If council refuses or imposes unreasonable conditions, we prepare and run your VCAT appeal to get the permit outcome your project needs.
Expanded Capability
Your network of trusted advisors
As part of the Sather Legal Group, Quinn & Quinn Lawyers clients can access specialist advice across multiple practice areas without leaving the network. One relationship, broader expertise.