Strategic council engagement before you commit to design. We manage pre-application meetings to identify issues early, understand council expectations, and position your project for success.
SQM Architects has delivered over 210 development projects across Melbourne with a 98% planning approval rate. Our team of ARBV-registered architects brings 15+ years of experience navigating Victorian planning requirements, helping developers across Melbourne's suburbs realise value from their sites.
Understand what council will support before spending thousands on detailed design.
Discover potential objections, policy concerns, or site constraints before lodgement.
Applications that address council feedback upfront move through faster.
Arrange, prepare for, and attend council pre-application meetings on your behalf.
Prepare preliminary concept sketches suitable for pre-lodgement discussion.
Guidance on how to present your project to council in the most favourable light.
Comprehensive assessment of planning risks and how to mitigate them.
Documented summary of council feedback and recommended response strategy.
Clear advice on whether to proceed with the project as planned or pivot approach.
Success in Melbourne's eastern suburbs requires architects who understand both the planning requirements and the council's design expectations.
Analyse your site, prepare concept sketches, and draft questions for council.
Attend pre-application meeting with council planner to discuss your project.
Provide detailed summary with recommendations for how to proceed.
Access the complete VPP including Clause 54 (one dwelling), Clause 55 (two+ dwellings), and ResCode standards.
View VPPOfficial Department of Transport and Planning guides for residential development, subdivisions, and permit applications.
View GuidesResidential development standards for setbacks, overlooking, overshadowing, private open space, and car parking.
View ResCodeVictorian Building Authority regulations, National Construction Code compliance, and building permit requirements.
View RegulationsGet instant insights into your property's subdivision potential. Powered by official Victorian planning data—no phone call required.
A pre-lodgement meeting can save months of delays and thousands in redesign costs. Let's discuss your project.
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