VPELA

ResCode is changing, with the introduction of new deemed-to-comply controls for 1-3 storey developments, 4-storey apartment standards and a ‘mid-rise’ code to be prepared later in the year. The aim of the ResCode overhaul is to boost the supply of new housing. Join us to hear more about the intent behind the new Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, and how it will work in practice.  Hear from our panel of speakers Colleen Peterson, Head of State Planning, DTP, Shem Curry, Director, Contour Consultants and Julie Slifirski, Director, Urbis on the potential benefits and pitfalls of the new provisions. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions about how the new provisions will work. Book here https://lnkd.in/g44aBrtw Thank you to our sponsor Contour Consultants #vpela #vpelaupcomingevents #rescode #low-riserescode #networking

This week over 80 planners from across the regions descended on the gorgeous regional city of Bendigo to attend the second in our seminar series "How to present a Compelling Case at VCAT/ Planning Panels as a Local Government Planner".   The session was informative, informal and filled with a good amount of humour, local case studies included (although made up) and as always, an opportunity to network.   VPELA would like to thank the City of Greater Bendigo for hosting the session. Our thanks also to Jodi Kennedy, Bass Coast Shire and VPELA Vice-President who chaired the event along with our presenters Michael Deidun, VCAT Member, Sarah Carlisle, Planning Panels Victoria, Greg Tobin, Harwood Andrews and Peter O'Farrell KC for providing great insights into how to present your case both from an advocate as well as a decision makers perspective.   We are planning to hold another two for this series in two more regional locations so watch this space!   #vpela #vpelaevents #localgovernment #planning #networking      

YPG events are back! It is exciting to see so many new and existing faces coming together at our events to soak up the warmer weather. The YPG Speed Networking event is a crowd pleaser and last week’s edition was no different. We were blessed with a sunny February evening and a full house of guests bringing great conversations and dusting off their networking skills. Thanks to our YPG sponsors Biosis Pty Ltd, Contour Consultants, Traffix Group and host Tract Consultants for welcoming us into their beautiful office and garden terrace. Thanks also to YPG Committee members James Aloi, Chloe Moorcroft, Lizzy Henry and Joshua McLennan for organising the event. The YPG Committee is busily planning more events so save the date for YPG Trivia on Thursday 10 April 🤔💡❓ #vpelaypg #vpelaevents #vpela #networking  

Australian Institute of Traffic Planning and Management (AITPM) and VPELA invite you to this event which aims to delve into the heart of this issue, examining a spectrum of transport projects - both successful and otherwise. Book here https://lnkd.in/gCpRFy8c #vpela #vpelaevents #aitmp #transport

The Kathy Mitchell Award winner was announced at Summer Soiree last week. Congratulations to Tahnae McCormack, Statutory Planning Officer, South Gippsland Shire Council who received the 2025 award. The Kathy Mitchell Award recognises excellence in a young or new professional working in the Victorian Public Sector. The aim of the award is to reward outstanding contributions, foster a culture of excellence in the public sector, and contribute to public sector staff retention. Tahnae received a "VPELA Golden Ticket" which entitles her to membership and complimentary attendance at VPELA events for 2025. Thank you to Murrundindi, Head Man of the Wurundjeri Clan of Melbourne who provided a welcome to Country. Our thanks also to our host and sponsor Norton Rose Fulbright #vpela #kathymitchellaward 

VPELA President, Mark Sheppard launched VPELA’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) yesterday evening at our Summer Soiree and thanked all those from the VPELA community and Reconciliation Australia. Thanks in particular to Mia Zar, Sarah Carlisle and Chloe Moorcroft who have been instrumental in developing our RAP and having it approved and endorsed through Reconciliation Australia. VPELA recognises the way Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been caring for Country sustainably for tens of thousands of years, and their deep well of knowledge in environmental planning. Recognising, understanding and respecting First Nations cultures is an intrinsic part of good planning and environmental practice, and promoting cultural understanding has an important role to play in the journey towards reconciliation. This is why VPELA has developed a RAP, to guide a program of initiatives to promote awareness of First Nations cultures, practices, knowledge and issues. Any members interested in joining a working group to implement our RAP, please contact the VPELA Secretariat. Our RAP is available here https://lnkd.in/gMXhnpSy #vpela #vpelareconciliationactionplan #reconciliationactionplan #rap #reconciliation

The VPELA Board understands that it is not always easy for rural and regional professionals to get to events. Following a survey of our regional members the Board developed a program of events in the regions. Our next event is being held in Bendigo with speakers Greg Tobin, Harwood Andrews, Peter O'Farrell KC, Victorian Bar, Sarah Carlisle, PPV and Michael Deidun, VCAT. - Hear from our expert in the field who represent many regional local governments at both VCAT and Panels - We will hear a number of case studies particularly around the farming zone - Township - multi dwelling applications - in smaller townships - change - considered high density, social housing - What makes a good submission - tips and tricks - Recent decisions that you should be across in your decision making The event will be followed by networking drinks and finger food at 4.00pm for an hour. Book here https://lnkd.in/guHAwkcb Thanks to our sponsor City of Greater Bendigo #vpela #vpelaevents #networking #cityofgreaterbendigo #vcat #PPV

On your marks, get set ... go Speed Networking! Our annual speed networking event is a fun way to meet fellow professionals working in the industry across a multitude of disciplines. Drinks and finger food provided. Book here https://lnkd.in/gmKNCgqw Thanks to our host Tract Consultants #vpelaypg #vpela #vpelaevents #networking

Wishing you all a very happy New Year.  Our Summer Soiree is our first event for the year and a great opportunity to catch up with everyone after the summer break and discuss the year ahead. The Kathy Mitchell Award will be presented to the winning recipient on the night. Drinks and finger food included. Book here https://lnkd.in/gseM7ZP8 Thank you to our host and sponsor Norton Rose Fulbright #vpela #vpelaevents #networking #kathymitchellaward

The VPELA Christmas Party held on Tuesday at was a wonderful night to celebrate and reflect on the year. VPELA President Mark Sheppard acknowledged retiring board member and Vice-President Colleen Peterson for her outstanding commitment and contribution to Board during her 9 year term of office. He also thanked Isobell Vescovi for her time on the YPG Committee and the last three years as Co-convenor. Rob Moore the recipient of the Paul Jerome Award this year joined us to be formally presented with his award announced at the Conference in August. Finally thank you to our sponsor onemilegrid #vpela #vpelaevents #vpelaypg #pauljeromeaward