Ballarat City Council has endorsed a proposed update to its planning controls aimed at strengthening the protection and management of heritage places across the municipality.
At the 10 June 2026 the Planning Delegated Committee meeting, Council supported the officer recommendations to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C265ball.
The amendment represents a comprehensive update to local heritage policy and planning provisions within the Ballarat Planning Scheme.
It follows an extensive review process, including community and stakeholder consultation, which identified the need for clearer, more detailed guidance to support decision-making and improve planning processes.
Key changes include the introduction of a new local heritage policy that provides stronger, place-specific direction for conserving heritage places and managing new development.
The updated policy is designed to better reflect Ballarat’s unique heritage character while ensuring development within heritage areas is appropriately designed and contextually responsive.
The amendment also introduces expanded planning permit application requirements for properties within the Heritage Overlay. These changes will clarify what information must be submitted with applications, helping to improve transparency, reduce delays, and support more consistent and efficient decision-making.
Subject to Ministerial authorisation, Planning Scheme Amendment C265ball will be placed on public exhibition, giving the community an opportunity to review the proposed changes and provide feedback.
