Voluntary Planning Agreements

What is a Voluntary Planning Agreement?

A Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) is an agreement entered into by Council and a developer. Under the agreement a developer agrees to provide or fund:

  • public amenities and public services;
  • affordable housing;
  • transport or other infrastructure.

Contributions can be made through:

  • dedication of land;
  • monetary contributions;
  • construction of infrastructure;
  • provision of materials for public benefit and/or use.

VPAs cannot be entered into unless public notice has been given and an explanatory note is made available for inspection for at least 28 days.

What is Council's policy on VPAs?

On 15 December 2009, Council resolved to exhibit the draft Planning Agreements Policy 2007 (Amendment No. 1). A key objective of the draft policy is to enhance the range and extent of development contributions for public benefits through development applications.

Planning Agreement Policy 2007