Next layer of living standards

The state government has released the second phase of its Building Better Apartment design standards for community consultation.

Two years on from the introduction of its first set of apartment design standards, which legislated new rules to ensure apartments have things like adequate daylight, storage and ventilation, the focus has now broadened to look at building exteriors.

The proposed changes will affect landscaping, external walls, vehicle access, site servicing, wind effects and the management of building construction impacts.

Announcing the changes on August 2, acting Minister for Planning Lily D’Ambrosio said the new standards were designed to lower the costs of maintenance through the use of better-quality materials.

“As more and more people choose apartment living, we need to ensure these buildings are high-quality and ready for 21st century challenges such as climate change and our growing population growth,” she said.

“Melbourne leads the world in liveability and that should be reflected in our apartments – by increasing green space and wind protection and creating safer, more attractive neighbourhoods.”

“Our buildings and public spaces are a defining feature of our city – it’s vital that we get the planning right now to make sure it stays that way.”

Consultation is now open at engage.vic.gov.au/building-better-apartments-in-neighbourhoods