As part of the Allan Labor Government’s bold planning reforms, it will soon be easier for Victorians to build a small second home on their property – giving families a space to grow together and boosting housing supply.

From next month, families will no longer require a planning permit to build a small second home on their property.

Too often, families want to keep their older and younger generations closer together – but are priced out of established areas around the state.

This change will make it easier for families to build a small second home on their own lot – near jobs, public transport, education and healthcare services, as well as existing social connections.

As part of the Labor Government’s recent Housing Statement, small second homes under 60 square metres, also known as granny flats, will no longer require a planning permit on properties 300 square metres or larger where there are no flooding or environmental overlays – lifting the burden of getting planning approval for Victorians.

There will be no restrictions on how a small second home can be used – they can be used flexibly, whether it’s keeping family members closer, providing temporary housing or being rented out for additional income.

Small second homes will still require a building permit, will need to meet ResCode (residential design code) setback and siting requirements – and cannot be subdivided or separately sold off from the main home.

These reforms will be implemented through changes to the planning and building systems, with a comprehensive information pack available for applicants and assessors.

Whether Victorians are buying their first place, upsizing or downsizing as life changes, renting or calling social housing their home – the landmark Housing Statement is about ensuring everyone has a place to call home.

Quote attributable to Premier Jacinta Allan

“We know for many Victorians the burden of planning approvals has put building a small second home in the too hard basket – we’re making it easier, so families can grow together and have a place to care for loved ones.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny

“Small second homes are an important part of our bold planning reforms – as we get on with building 800,000 new homes in Victoria over the next decade – ensuring Victorians can live where they want to live and close to family.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt

“We’re making it easier to build a second home for families living in popular established suburbs like Brunswick, ensuring younger or older generations have the choice to stay close to where they grew up.”